Sitting at his locker on Friday morning, Ben Brown allowed himself to smile when a group of reporters approached. The Cubs had not yet announced a probable starter for Saturday’s game against the Reds

Brown will not get the start Saturday, with the Cubs going with reliever Drew Pomeranz instead. Brown, however, "will be involved," manager Craig Counsell said.

CHICAGO — The announcement for the Cubs’ starting probables over the weekend came later than usual. A text to reporters was sent Friday morning, just 20 minutes before the clubhouse would open for the day, announcing that day’s starters and the plan for the next two days.

Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong was projected to earn a nine-figure contract extension amid his breakout season.

CHICAGO -- — Andrew Abbott pitched seven shutout innings in his third consecutive win, helping the Cincinnati Reds beat the Chicago Cubs 6-2 on Friday. TJ Friedl, Tyler Stephenson and Jake Fraley homered for Cincinnati, which improved to 3-1 on a six-game trip. Will Benson had two hits and scored twice.

Cincinnati Reds left-hander Andrew Abbott's seven scoreless innings Friday completed a six-start May with a 0.55 ERA.

The last 25 years have marked an incredible shift in how the Cubs are viewed and what expectations fans have for the group.

Manager Craig Counsell is going to use Drew Pomeranz as an opener on Saturday for Brown's regular turn in the rotation. The NL Central leaders announced their plans after a 6-2 loss to the Reds in the series opener on Friday.

The Chicago Cubs could potentially use this prospect trade package to convince the Pittsburgh Pirates to trade Paul Skenes.