CLEVELAND — The Cubs are running out of patience with Jason Heyward. It’s nothing personal, because Heyward continues to be a Gold Glove defender and a model teammate. It’s not necessarily a statement on the next seven years of the biggest contract in franchise history. But manager Joe Maddon recognizes the urgency of the situation, benching the $184 million outfielder in the World Series.
Maddon hoped Chris Coghlan could create an offensive spark against Corey Kluber and the Cleveland Indians in Tuesday night’s Game 1 at Progressive Field, leaving Heyward as the late-inning defensive replacement in right field had the Cubs grabbed an early lead.