Jon Lester is now the most accomplished left-handed pitcher in Cubs history (by one measure, at least).
Joe Maddon announced to reporters in Arizona Monday Lester would be the Cubs' Opening Day starter once again in 2019, the fourth time he's held that honor in five years with the Cubs. That's the most all-time by a lefty in the 143-year history of the Cubs franchise:
2019 will be Jon Lester's 4th opening day start for the #Cubs, passing Hippo Vaughn for most by a lefty in franchise history.
— Christopher Kamka (@ckamka) March 4, 2019
Even with Yu Darvish showcasing the "best stuff of his life," Kyle Hendricks coming off another very good season and Cole Hamels back for a full season, Lester was the obvious choice for the Cubs' Opening Day starter, so Monday's announcement is more formality than anything else.