MESA, Ariz. -- The Cubs open the Cactus League season on Thursday against the Brewers, and aren't going to waste time seeing if Javier Baez can play the outfield.
Baez will start in center and bat sixth in the first Spring Training game, to be played in Phoenix. Travis Wood will start and be followed by Kyle Hendricks, and each was expected to throw two innings. Other pitchers on the travel roster include Clayton Richard, Rex Brothers and Spencer Patton.
Kyle Schwarber will lead off and play left, and he will be followed in the lineup by third baseman Kris Bryant, first baseman Anthony Rizzo, right fielder Jorge Soler, catcher Miguel Montero, Baez, second baseman Tommy La Stella, designated hitter Dan Vogelbach and shortstop Munenori Kawasaki.