4/18 Odds and ends

Some notes heading into series finale vs. Astros:

* The Cubs have used their Opening Day lineup five times in the first 11 games. Because of injuries last year, they were able to do so three times in 161 games.

* The Cubs are batting .316 and averaging 6.4 runs per game at home heading into Sunday’s game after hitting .197 with an average of 3 runs per game in the first six games on the road.

* Upcoming probable pitchers vs. New York (subject to change):

Monday: Randy Wells vs. Jonathan Niese
Tuesday: Carlos Zambrano vs. Mike Pelfrey
Wednesday: Carlos Silva vs. Oliver Perez
Thursday: Tom Gorzelanny vs. Johan Santana

* On this date in history: In 1951, Sam Snead teed off from home plate and hit a golf ball off the center field scoreboard during pregame ceremonies.

– Carrie Muskat