Chicago Cubs face Toronto Blue Jays as lineup shifts highlight series

The Chicago Cubs host the Toronto Blue Jays at Wrigley Field for a three‑game series starting June 19. The Cubs' starting pitcher for Game 1 is right‑hander Ben Brown, who boasts a 1.74 ERA, while the Blue Jays counter with ace Kevin Gausman (3.41 ERA). Other matchups include Toronto’s Patrick Corbin vs. Chicago’s Colin Rea and Dylan Cease vs. Shota Imanaga.

Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson remains in the lineup despite a historically low .176 batting average, the worst for a position player with at least 265 plate appearances in the modern era. President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer said the team will not move him despite the struggles. Meanwhile, outfielder Matt Shaw moves up to the sixth spot in the order, having hit .429 over his last seven games and emerging as a consistent offensive contributor.

The Blue Jays, chasing the AL East lead, field a lineup featuring George Springer, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Jesús Sánchez. Both clubs aim to secure wins as the season approaches the trade deadline and postseason implications.