Cubs notes: Jake Arrieta pitches hot team to win

Bryant to DH

Kris Bryant will DH in a “B” game Thursday at 1 p.m. at Sloan Park. He’ll throw beforehand and could return to third base Friday, six days after he missed his first start with a fatigued throwing shoulder.

Manager Joe Maddon said the plan to give him turns in the outfield is “not off the table,” but not something the team would proceed with until after his shoulder feels better.

Red hot

Jorge Soler went 2-for-4 with a double, an RBI and a diving catch in right field as the Cubs beat the Dodgers, 7-5, Wednesday at Camelback Ranch. It marked the Cubs’ sixth win in the past seven games.

Arrieta not worried

Jake Arrieta was unable to find consistency Wednesday, allowing five runs, all earned, on seven hits, two walks and one wild pitch in four innings against the Dodgers in Glendale. Arrieta said his delivery fell off a bit to the glove side, “but that’s an easy fix.” He said his timing was fine, and he just needed to visualize his release point better.

Deeeee-fense

Entering Wednesday, the Cubs’ 20 errors were tied for second-most in the Cactus League. But they could be great on defense, Maddon said — Or not. “Potentially, very good,” Maddon said. “Potentially, really good. Potentially pedestrian. …. But our guys have to believe that it’s that important. And that’s the sale job gong on right now. “

On deck

Cubs at Diamondbacks, 8:40 p.m., Cubs.com. Edwin Jackson vs. Rubby de la Rosa