Banged up Cubs lineup without Rizzo (back) Wednesday

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Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo is out of the starting lineup Wednesday with low back tightness that originally popped up during last week’s series against the Nationals.

“He woke up this morning just a little stiff,” manager David Ross said of Rizzo. “He tried to work it out, but I didn't want to push it.”

Rizzo, who's had back issues in recent seasons, tweaked his back running out of the batter’s box on May 18 against Washington. He exited ahead of the fifth inning and missed the next game before returning to the lineup May 20.

Ross said Wednesday Rizzo is available to pinch hit Wednesday but the Cubs are being cautious with a quick turnaround to Thursday’s day game.

“He felt like he could play, but when it does creep up, I try to listen to him,” Ross added. “He knows his body pretty well. Just making sure we're taking every precaution that we possibly can.”

While Rizzo is out of the lineup, catcher Willson Contreras is starting for the first time since Sunday, when he took a Craig Kimbrel fastball off the wrist behind the plate.

Versatile Cubs star Kris Bryant is starting at first base on Wednesday. Bryant moved to first after Rizzo left the game against Washington. 

"I just went down there and told him, 'Hey, I can play first for you,’” Bryant said last week, recalling his conversation with Rizzo. “'Please don't do anything stupid. We need you for the long haul.'

"He's had back trouble before.”

The Cubs position player group is banged up right now. Wednesday, Nico Hoerner joined Jason Heyward and Jake Marisnick in landing on the IL with a hamstring strain. Matt Duffy hit the IL Tuesday with a low back strain.

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