Michael Busch
Breakdown
Performance
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April 13, 2026
Taking seat for second straight day
Busch is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Phillies.
Analysis
Though Busch broke a 0-for-30 drought at the plate a pinch-hit RBI single in Sunday's 7-6 win over the Pirates, he'll open a second straight game on the bench. With southpaw Cristopher Sanchez on the bump for the Phillies, the Cubs will add an extra right-handed bat to the lineup and deploy Carson Kelly at first base in place of the left-handed-hitting Busch.
April 12, 2026
Receiving first day off
Busch is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Pirates.
Analysis
Matt Shaw will step in at first base in place of Busch, who will hit the bench after 14 consecutive starts to open the season. Though the Cubs often shielded him from left-handed pitching over the previous two seasons, Busch is expected to continue starting against southpaws more often than not in 2026.
