‘There's Really No Rules': Lester, Arrieta Available if Needed for Game 7 Wednesday

As the final game of the 2016 MLB season looms, the Chicago Cubs are taking an “all-hands on deck” approach to Game 7 of the World Series, and that includes two of the team’s best starting pitchers.

Kyle Hendricks will start Game 7 on Wednesday night, going up against Cleveland Indians ace Corey Kluber, but he is not the only starter that will be available in a relief role if Joe Maddon opts to go into his bullpen during the game.

Jon Lester, who has started in two games in this World Series, told media earlier this week that he will be available in whatever role Maddon envisions for him.

“If we’re in that weird situation and they have to bring me in, then we have three months to recover,” Lester said. “There’s really no rules.”

Lester won’t be alone in his eagerness to contribute if needed. Jake Arrieta, who has also started in two games and threw over 100 pitches in the team’s Game 6 victory on Tuesday night, told media in his postgame press conference that he is available to pitch as well if he’s called upon.

“I’ll definitely be available if outs are needed,” Arrieta said. “Last game of the year…everybody’s available pretty much.”

Even though both pitchers have declared themselves ready and available to pitch in the critical game, Lester is optimistic that they won’t be needed and that the game will play out in a routine fashion.

“Hopefully Kyle is Kyle and the guys that have gotten us here are called upon, and I keep my happy little butt right there in the dugout,” he said.

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