Aug. 15--Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon has been afforded the chance to give some of his players a semi-break by using the designated hitter for three consecutive games at U.S. Cellular Field.
Maddon elected to use rookie Kyle Schwarber as the Cubs' DH on Friday but wasn't sure whom he would employ in that role for the next two games.
Maddon lamented not using first baseman Anthony Rizzo in that role Friday because the Cubs are facing left-handers Jose Quintana and Chris Sale the next two games.
If there's any consolation, it comes from the fact the Cubs have a day off on Monday -- allowing Rizzo and his teammates a full day of rest.
Maddon, who managed the Tampa Bay Rays for nine seasons, had no advice for his players who are handling the DH duties.
Maddon did recall how Dan Johnson would handle his idle time.
"He would do crossword puzzles between at-bats," Maddon smiled. "I thought it was great. Some guys would stress it out."
