Chicago Cubs: Terry Francona texted Theo Epstein about Kyle Schwarber

Oct 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs left fielder Kyle Schwarber (12) stands outside the batting cage before game three of the 2016 World Series against the Cleveland Indians at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs left fielder Kyle Schwarber (12) stands outside the batting cage before game three of the 2016 World Series against the Cleveland Indians at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /
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Chicago Cubs slugger Kyle Schwarber has been the topic of many discussions. Most recently, Terry Francona and Theo Epstein texted about him.

Cleveland Indians manager Terry Francona recently texted Chicago Cubs President of Baseball Operations Theo Epstein about his use of Kyle Schwarber.

“He texted me, ‘You guys should really be a little more cautious with Schwarber and his knee — I don’t think he needs to play again this series,’” Epstein said on the Spiegel and Goff Show on Friday. “So I texted him back we’d be that cautious with Schwarber as soon as he understood that (Corey) Kluber and (Andrew) Miller have a lot of innings and need to throw next year, so he should probably shut them down as soon as possible.”

This text came after Schwarber appeared as the designated hitter in both Game 1 and Game 2 of the World Series. While traveling to Chicago for Game 3, it was reported that Kyle Schwarber was not cleared to play defense and will be limited to pinch hitting.

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Terry Francona, while managing the Boston Red Sox, worked under Theo Epstein from 2004 through 2011. They both enjoyed World Series championship wins in 2004 and 2007. They also both remain great friends, having built their relationship with their mutual success.

“He’s a great guy. We went through a lot together in Boston. I’m really proud of the job he’s done in Cleveland. It’s a little bit surreal to be back in a World Series environment with him on the other end, but I think it just shows the importance of a great manager to see him and Joe (Maddon) here in the World Series. It’s been an honor and a pleasure to work with both guys.”

Next: Miller calls out Girardi for his bullpen usage

The Indians currently have a 2-1 lead over the Chicago Cubs as we make are way into Game 4 of the series. Cleveland’s ace Corey Kluber will be taking the mound against another guy who has ties to the Red Sox: John Lackey. Kluber pitched Game 1 of the series and completely shut down the Chicago bats through 6 innings. Lackey hasn’t pitched since the NLCS game against the Dodgers where he only last 4 innings.