Hitting third for Cubs suits Schierholtz just fine

ST. LOUIS -- Anthony Rizzo was back in the Cubs lineup Wednesday, after getting a one-day "breather," but stayed in the No. 5 spot instead of returning to No. 3. Nate Schierholtz seems pretty comfortable batting third.

In four games, Schierholtz is 4-for-13 (.308) with one home run, one double and two RBIs. He entered Wednesday's game with a career-high 10-game hitting streak.

"There's no change," Schierholtz said of his approach. "Third to fifth isn't a whole lot different [in the order]. You hit in the first inning always on the road but other than that, I try to keep the same approach no matter where I'm hitting. I don't overthink it."

He also leads the Cubs in batting with runners in scoring position, hitting .313 this season.

"I have a game plan that I go up there with and I know it changes with runners on because pitchers pitch you different," Schierholtz said. "I just try to stick to my game plan and, like I said, not try to think too much and overanalyze anything."

He already has more doubles (18), home runs (nine) and RBIs (26) than he totaled last year between the Giants and Phillies. So far, it's been a good decision to sign with the Cubs.

"I signed here because I knew I'd have a chance to play here more than I have in the past," he said. "So far, I've played agianst every right-handed pitcher, which is great for me. My goal is to go out and help the team win and get on base and drive in runs. That's something I"ll continue to work on. I'm just happy that I've been given this opportunity."