Batting Bryant leadoff makes sense for Cubs

Cubs manager Joe Maddon carries a reputation for outside-the-box thinking, and it shows up in his lineup construction. Maddon started 11 different players in the top spot in 2017. Current free agent Jon Jay led the way with 51 starts, but the eclectic group also included plenty of players who go decidedly against the traditional prototype, including Kyle Schwarber (36), Anthony Rizzo (14) and Willson Contreras (2). Not included on that list was Kris Bryant — but it’s possible that could change in 2018.