Red-hot Bonifacio gets a break from Cubs' lineup

ST. LOUIS -- Emilio Bonifacio began Saturday leading the Major Leagues in hits, but manager Rick Renteria decided it was a good time to give the versatile player a breather.

Bonifacio had started in the Cubs' first 10 games, and was the leadoff man. On Saturday, Junior Lake filled in, hitting the first pitch from St. Louis' Adam Wainwright to left for a home run.

Bonifacio was batting .435, which ranks among the top five National League batters.

"When someone is as hot as he is, you'd love to have him in there all the time," Renteria said. "We've played a lot of night games and extra-inning games, and he's on the bases a lot. Guys when they're on the bases a lot, there's a little wear and tear on the body. You want to be mindful of that."

Bonifacio also has seven stolen bases, the most in the Majors. He is closing in on the Cubs' record for most steals in March and April of 12, which Brian McRae set in 1996.

Renteria has used a variety of lineups so far, but Bonifacio has been the constant at the top of the order.

"I'm pretty comfortable and confident with all the guys we have, obviously," Renteria said. "'Boni' has been playing every single day. We've got some guys we'd like to get out there and have them perform against some of these guys, too."