Will Fukudome lead off vs. lefties?

TEMPE, Ariz. -- Cubs manager Lou Piniella knows his audience well.

"I'm going to throw something else in there that will give everybody some questions," Piniella said, warming up to a new thought about right fielder Kosuke Fukudome.

"I wouldn't even mind leading Fukudome off against lefties, to be honest with you. I'm not saying we're going to do that, but that's in my mind, also. I like him there.

"He makes the pitcher throw a lot of pitches. He's got a good eye. It's good spot for him. I've seen him enough here against lefties. It'll give you all something to play around with, too."

Fukudome batted fifth in Wednesday's 7-5 victory over the Los Angeles Angels. He recorded an outfield assist in the second inning when he gunned down Robb Quinlan trying to stretch a single into a double.

Piniella noted the Cubs are sure to see some lefties early in the season, especially in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia.

Of course, with all things related to Piniella and the lineup, this is subject to change.