"The issue is that the last time he caught, he was behind the plate for Matthew Boyd, and that seemed to be something the Cubs preferred, specifically because Boyd is particularly good at managing the run game (he's got a great pickoff move). But once Boyd hit the IL, the plan was a little up in the air. So I'll be curious to see how he handles Colin Rea tonight, and if there are a few more pickoff moves than usual, just to help keep the runners honest."
The Cubs play the Braves at Truist Park after an off-day, with early-season records making the matchup a key test. The projected lineup includes Nico Hoerner at second, Michael Conforto as the designated hitter, Alex Bregman at third, Ian Happ in left, Seiya Suzuki in right, Michael Busch at first, Moises Ballesteros behind the plate, Dansby Swanson at short, and Pete Crow-Armstrong in center. Ballesteros is catching again for a second start of the year, providing rest and flexibility for Craig Counsell. His last start came behind Matthew Boyd, whose pickoff ability helps manage the run game. With Boyd on the injured list, the Cubs plan is less certain, so Ballesteros’s handling of Colin Rea and potential pickoff frequency will be important, especially given Atlanta’s low stolen-base production.
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