Almora and Lucroy got the starts in this game for doing less in less AB. Almora and Lucroy got the starts in this game because Sonny Gray has reverse splits, which is the reason those 2 had decent numbers against him. Len literally said this in the open which is probably when you were looking up Russell's stats against tomorrow's Reds pitcher.
I was at the game he pitched, he gave up like 3 home runs in one inning and if I remember correctly the Cubs actually came back and won that game I was there too and I can't believe you even have to consider whether you're remembering correctly since it's to this day the most memorable regular-season game of the current era. (Matusz gave up a 2-run homer in each of the first 3 innings.)
I'm going to guess this is just some weird Joe logic where walking into a clubhouse with home jerseys hanging makes them feel like they are at home and thus play better. I can't see them being able to actually wear them in the game. Wait did I say Joe logic? I mean Edith logic. You are right, Jordan clarified that they aren't wearing the whites today.
Replaced by a goon named Aristedes Aquino. Hasnt missed a beat. We just need to pound these [expletive] into oblivion. 11% K Schwarber, Happ, Castellanos are like 3 new editions to the offense in the 2nd half. Need them to keep it up.