For the last five seasons when checking the Chicago Cubs starting lineup you could be sure to see Anthony Rizzo penciled in as the starting first baseman. Rizzo has been a staple in the Cubs lineup and has appeared in 140 games or more each season since 2013.
Rizzo’s reliability has been a luxury for the Cubs and because they’ve never needed a backup first baseman on their roster. However, due to a sore back, Rizzo had earned himself a stint on the 10-day disabled list early in the season.
With a temporary void at first base, the Cubs needed to find someone to hold down the fort.