Data-sorting the rest of the 2021 Cubs season

Quinn Harris-USA TODAY Sports After a bit of a raucous Friday, with a rumored Brennen Davis sighting (that turned out not to be true) and a looming roster move (that became a Jason Heyward injury placement), Saturday's pregame was somewhat tame. With a lefty on the hill in Carlos Rodon, Rafael Ortega continued as the leadoff hitter, and Greg Deichmann sat, along with Johneshwy Fargas. As I noted on Twitter, it was a bit of a data sort. The rest of the 2021 season will be, at least partially, about assessing talent and similar decisions more than getting upset over losses. Which decisions and developments will intrigue you the most?

For me, the optional players will be of added importance.…