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First responders? Cubs hope to get help for lagging leadoff spot from Ben Zobrist, Albert Almora

NEW YORK – Whether the Cubs ever get this leadoff-hitter thing right this season, their last, best chance might come Sunday when they get Ben Zobrist back from personal leave and Albert Almora Jr. back from the minors when rosters expand for the final month.

“When Zo comes back I anticipate giving him a couple shots up there,” manager Joe Maddon said, “but he’s not going to play every day, either. So that’s part of the concern.”

The Cubs’ have the worst leadoff on-base percentage in the majors (.284 entering play Thursday).

And even elevating Jason Heyward and his .