Chicago Cubs Fan Zone: Exclusive News, Game Previews & Recaps

Tag: Chicago Cubs

  • Cubs Catcher Sidelined: Headed to Injured List with Right Oblique Injury

    Cubs Catcher Sidelined: Headed to Injured List with Right Oblique Injury

    The Chicago Cubs Catcher Sidelined are facing an unexpected roster move after starting catcher Miguel Amaya exited Saturday’s game with a concerning right oblique strain , according to reports from the Chicago Sun-Times and other outlets.

    Amaya left the game after throwing to second base during Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz’s stolen base attempt. The discomfort was immediate, and he was quickly checked by team trainers before exiting early.

    Manager Craig Counsell confirmed after the game that Amaya is “likely” heading to the injured list and expected to undergo imaging on Tuesday.

    Impact on the Cubs’ Lineup

    Amaya, who has been a solid presence behind the plate since his 2023 rookie breakout, has shared catching duties this season with veteran Carson Kelly. Through 27 games in 2025, Amaya is hitting .280/.313/.505 with four home runs and 25 RBI — not bad for someone playing about half the games.

    However, Kelly has outperformed him offensively this season, slashing .301/.425/.612 with nine homers and 24 RBI over 32 games.

    Still, losing a regular catcher mid-season can disrupt chemistry, especially with the Cubs preparing for a crucial homestand against the Colorado Rockies after wrapping up their series with the Reds on Sunday.

    What Happens Next?

    With only two catchers on the 40-man roster — Amaya and Kelly — the Cubs face a decision: make a move now or risk going into a game with just one healthy catcher on Sunday.

    If Amaya officially lands on the IL, the most logical call-up is Moisés Ballesteros , the club’s top catching prospect. Ballesteros recently made his MLB debut, collecting three hits in 16 at-bats over five games. He was sent back to Triple-A Iowa after the initial stint but remains the only other option on the 40-man roster.

    Calling up Ballesteros would give the Cubs depth and flexibility, even if it means carrying just one backup behind Kelly for a few days.

    Looking Ahead

    The Cubs will return to Chicago after Sunday’s game to host the Rockies at Wrigley Field. If they wait until then to make the move official, they’ll be gambling slightly with only one catcher active — but it’s a calculated risk teams often take.

    Regardless of when the move happens, this injury opens another chapter in what’s been a season full of adjustments behind the plate for the Cubs.

    As always, all eyes will be on how the front office and coaching staff respond — and whether the next wave of young talent is ready to step up.

  • Chicago Cubs Set to Host MLB All-Star Game After Wrigley Field Upgrades

    Chicago Cubs Set to Host MLB All-Star Game After Wrigley Field Upgrades

    According to a recent report by Bruce Levine of 670 The Score , the historic Wrigley Field will host the MLB All-Star Game in 2027 , marking the first time the Cubs have hosted the midsummer classic since 1990 .

    At that time, Wrigley Field will be 113 years old , but thanks to extensive renovations and improved safety infrastructure, it’s proving that age is just a number when it comes to hosting big league events.

    Let’s take a closer look at how the Cubs got here — and what this means for fans and the city of Chicago.

    A Long-Awaited Return to the All-Star Spotlight

    For over three decades, the Cubs have waited for another shot at hosting the Midsummer Classic . Since their last All-Star appearance in 1990, the city of Chicago did see an All-Star Game in 2003 — but that was at U.S. Cellular Field , home of the White Sox.

    Now, with Wrigley Field fully modernized and better integrated into its surrounding neighborhood, MLB is ready to return to the North Side.

    Major Renovations Paved the Way

    From 2016 to 2018 , Wrigley Field underwent one of the most ambitious restoration projects in baseball history. The iconic ballpark retained its charm while gaining state-of-the-art amenities, including:

    • New video boards
    • Improved seating
    • Club-level lounges
    • Enhanced accessibility

    But even after those upgrades, there was still one final hurdle standing between the Cubs and hosting the All-Star Game: security compliance .

    Security Concerns and the $30 Million Fix

    Wrigley Field sits uniquely within the heart of Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood , surrounded by homes, shops, and busy streets like Addison , Clark , Waveland , and Sheridan . Unlike newer stadiums built with wide-open spaces around them, Wrigley is nestled tightly inside a single city block.

    Because of that layout, shutting down the area completely during large events has always been difficult.

    To meet MLB’s strict security requirements for the All-Star Game, the team, the city, and the state came together to fund a $30 million project involving anti-terrorism bollards and sidewalk expansions.

    These bollards — sturdy, permanent barriers — will help secure the perimeter and allow for safer crowd control during large events.

    As part of the plan, Alderman Bennett Lawson (44th Ward) introduced an ordinance to the Chicago City Council earlier this week. The proposal includes:

    • Installing anti-terrorism bollards
    • Widening sidewalks along Addison Street
    • Improving pedestrian flow and emergency access
    • The city has already pledged up to $10 million , funded from the 2014
    • Cubs Fund , which was created specifically for neighborhood improvements tied to the team’s ownership changes.

    From Temporary Fixes to Permanent Solutions

    In past years, the Cubs and the city used Archer barriers — movable gates — to temporarily close off parts of Waveland and Sheridan avenues during games and special events. These were effective but not considered sufficient for a high-profile event like the All-Star Game.

    With the new bollards, MLB and local authorities can ensure a more secure and controlled environment , making Wrigley eligible once again to host elite-level events.

    This kind of planning also benefits other large-scale happenings, such as the Big Ten Hockey Showcase and the NHL Winter Classic , both held near Wrigley in recent years.

    Final Approval Expected Soon

    While nothing is official yet, sources indicate that the final pieces of the puzzle are falling into place. Once the bollard installation is approved and funding secured, the Cubs are expected to be officially named the 2027 MLB All-Star Game host — likely this summer.

    A Win for Baseball, Fans, and the City

    It shows that Wrigley Field , despite its age, remains one of the crown jewels of American sports venues. It proves that the Cubs organization is committed to excellence beyond the field. And it highlights the city’s ability to adapt and grow without losing its identity.

  • Security Bollards Installed Around Wrigley Field: Who’s Paying the $30M Bill?

    Security Bollards Installed Around Wrigley Field: Who’s Paying the $30M Bill?

    Install metal crash-rated bollards to prevent unauthorized vehicle access and mitigate threats. Given Wrigley Field is in the middle of a dense neighborhood, this is a must for fan, player and community safety.NBC Chicago+3Crain’s Chicago Business+3Sports Business Journal+3

    Cost is $30 million. The Cubs are seeking city and state funding to support this. Alderman Bennett Lawson has expressed support saying the city has to invest in neighborhood safety. Sports Business Journal+2Crain’s Chicago Business+244thward.org+2

    All-Star Game

    MLB says these security measures are a requirement to consider Wrigley Field as an All-Star Game host. Wrigley last hosted in 1990 and the Cubs want to bring it back. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has said city support is key to making this happen. 44thward.org+6Sports Business Journal+6Crain’s Chicago Business+6Crain’s Chicago Business+1Sports Business Journal+1

    Integration with Advanced Security Tech

    Wrigley Field is also integrating advanced security tech beyond physical barriers. They have installed AI-enabled touchless screening systems like Evolv Express that allows fans to go through security without removing their phones and keys. These systems can screen up to 3,600 people per hour reducing wait times and improving the fan experience. MLB.com+2Stadium Tech Report+2Bleed Cubbie Blue+2Bleed Cubbie Blue+1Stadium Tech Report+1

    They also have centralized surveillance systems to monitor and respond to incidents in real-time. This is a comprehensive approach to stadium security, physical infrastructure and technology.

    Community and Future

    The Cubs initiative is about not just security but community engagement. By working with local authorities and investing in safety the organization wants to create a safe and welcoming environment for all fans.Stasher+10Crain’s Chicago Business+10NBC Chicago+10Once this is done Wrigley will be ready for anything.

  • Marlins vs Cubs Final Score: Miami Walks Off in Thrilling Finish

    Marlins vs Cubs Final Score: Miami Walks Off in Thrilling Finish

    In a heart-stopping opener of the three-game series between the Miami Marlins and Chicago Cubs, Jesus Sanchez delivered a dramatic walk-off double to lift Miami to an 8-7 victory. With the game on the line and just one out remaining, Sanchez came through in the clutch, sending fans into a frenzy.

    Sanchez Steals the Show with Walk-Off Magic

    Jesus Sanchez was the star of the night, finishing with three hits, four RBIs, and the decisive blow in the bottom of the ninth. Trailing by two runs heading into their final at-bat, the Marlins didn’t go quietly. Derek Hill sparked the rally with a ground-rule double off Daniel Palencia (0-1), followed by a walk from Javier Sanoja. Then, Sanchez laced a ball into right field that plated both runners, sealing a stunning comeback win.

    Valente Bellozo (1-2) earned the win after tossing three shutout innings of relief, helping Miami secure its fourth win in five games. The win also snapped Chicago’s three-game winning streak, led by Miguel Amaya who belted a three-run homer and added a two-run double earlier in the contest.

    Other MLB Game Highlights – April 2025

    Phillies Keep Rolling Over Rockies

    Philadelphia continued its dominance over Colorado with a 9-3 win in Denver. Edmundo Sosa and Alec Bohm each went deep while Kyle Schwarber celebrated his 300th career home run by launching a blast into the third deck. The Phillies have now won four straight games as the Rockies drop their sixth in seven contests.

    Reds Keep Pirates Winless Series Start

    Nick Lodolo pitched six strong innings and Austin Hays and TJ Friedl each tallied three hits to lead Cincinnati past Pittsburgh 7-1. Elly De La Cruz contributed two RBIs as the Reds matched their season-best five-game winning streak and remained perfect against the Pirates this season at 4-0.

    Red Sox Edge Mets Behind Stellar Relief Work

    Boston’s bullpen held firm to protect a narrow lead, with Jarren Duran delivering key hits early and Aroldis Chapman closing it out for his seventh save. Hunter Dobbins started strong and Justin Wilson (2-0) picked up the win as the Red Sox edged New York 3-1.

    Astros Edge Rays in Tightly Contested Opener

    Jake Meyers’ solo homer in the seventh proved to be the difference-maker as Houston opened its Tampa Bay series with a 4-3 win. Jeremy Pena and Victor Caratini also contributed with multi-hit nights, while Josh Hader locked down his 12th save despite a shaky ninth inning.

    Rodriguez Grand Slam Lifts Mariners Past White Sox

    Julio Rodriguez crushed a grand slam in the eighth inning to break open a close game, backing Luis Castillo’s dominant seven-inning, shutout start. Seattle improved to four consecutive wins with a 5-1 decision over the reeling White Sox.

    Contreras Drives in Winning Run as Brewers Beat Orioles

    William Contreras capped a four-hit night with the go-ahead RBI single in the eighth inning, giving Milwaukee a 5-4 win over Baltimore. Abner Uribe and Trevor Megill provided late-inning heroics from the bullpen as the Orioles dropped their seventh straight game.

    Cardinals Dominate Tigers Behind Sonny Gray

    Sonny Gray was lights-out for St. Louis, striking out 10 over six shutout innings in an 11-4 rout of Detroit. Ivan Herrera, Jordan Walker, and Pedro Pages all drove in multiple runs as the Cardinals extended their hot streak to 13 wins in 15 games.

    Royals Spoil Robbie Ray’s Gem in SF

    Vinnie Pasquantino’s eighth-inning two-run homer broke the stalemate as Kansas City edged the Giants 3-1 behind another stellar outing from Kris Bubic (5-2). San Francisco’s Robbie Ray suffered his first loss of the season after allowing just six hits over seven scoreless frames.

    Diamondbacks Power Past Dodgers

    Arizona blasted three two-run homers—courtesy of Lourdes Gurriel Jr., Gabriel Moreno, and Geraldo Perdomo—to take down Los Angeles 9-5. Mookie Betts hit two homers for the Dodgers, but it wasn’t enough as LA fell to a season-worst four-game skid.

    Angels Take Down Athletics Behind Taylor Ward

    Taylor Ward homered for the third straight game, providing the go-ahead blast in the third inning to help Los Angeles defeat Oakland 4-3. Nolan Schanuel added a solo shot as the Angels matched their longest win streak of the year at four games.

    Game Suspended Between Guardians and Twins Due to Weather

    The Cleveland-Minnesota matchup was halted at the start of the fourth inning due to inclement weather. The game is scheduled to resume Tuesday afternoon before the regularly scheduled contest begins approximately 30 minutes later.

  • Will the Cubs Lose Their Star? World Series Champions Plotting Free Agency Move

    Will the Cubs Lose Their Star? World Series Champions Plotting Free Agency Move

    The Chicago Cubs have been the most fun team to watch in baseball this year, and it’s all thanks to their offense. Leading the charge is none other than Kyle Tucker, the offseason acquisition who has become the face of the franchise. But as the Cubs are enjoying this hot start, the question looms: Will they lose their star to free agency?

    The Cubs’ Offensive Surge and Kyle Tucker’s Impact

    When the Cubs traded for Kyle Tucker this winter, many were skeptical. Sending top prospect Cam Smith to the Houston Astros for a player in his final year of team control seemed like a risk. But Tucker has proven the doubters wrong—and then some.

    This year, Tucker has been unbelievable. His power at the plate and his defense in the outfield have the Cubs at the top of the MLB standings. With 231 runs scored by the team so far, Tucker’s contributions have been a big reason why the Cubs are the most feared lineup in baseball.

    But as great as Tucker has been, it’s also making him more expensive. And with free agency looming, the Cubs may not be able to keep him in Chicago.

    How Much Could Tucker Command on the Open Market?

    Tucker’s performance has him in line for a record breaking contract. According to sources, a deal worth $500 million isn’t out of the question. For perspective, that’s nearly three times the largest contract the Cubs have ever given out in franchise history.

    Every team in baseball will likely express interest, but only a select few can really compete for Tucker’s services. One of those teams is the Los Angeles Dodgers, a team with deep pockets and willing to go all in for elite talent.

    The Dodgers Enter the Fray

    In his Sunday notebook, USA Today MLB insider Bob Nightengale dropped a bombshell:

    “The Los Angeles Dodgers plan to get into the free agent fray for Cubs outfielder Kyle Tucker this winter,” Nightengale wrote. “They may not be the high bidder but they’ll keep everyone honest just like they did in the Juan Soto sweepstakes.”

    The Dodgers’ involvement is enough to give Cubs fans and fans of other MLB teams the heebie jeebies. If the Dodgers want Tucker, history shows they’ll do whatever it takes to get him.

    For Chicago, this adds an extra layer of urgency. If the Dodgers or another big market team decides to make Tucker their top priority, the Cubs could get priced out of the bidding war.

    Can the Cubs Keep Tucker?

    The Cubs have a decision to make and it’s one that will shape the future of the franchise. Allowing Tucker to walk in free agency would be a huge blow especially since he’s been so key to the team’s success.

    If there’s any chance to sign him long term before he hits free agency, the Cubs need to act fast. Tucker’s value is skyrocketing with each game he plays, and waiting until the offseason could be a costly mistake.

    What This Means for the Cubs and the League?

    Losing Tucker wouldn’t just hurt the Cubs, it would disrupt the balance of power in baseball. Adding a player of Tucker’s caliber to an already stacked Dodgers roster would be a super team unlike anything we’ve seen in recent years.

    For now, Cubs fans can enjoy the ride as Tucker continues to dominate. But as the calendar gets closer to free agency, the pressure is on for the Cubs to find a way to keep their superstar in town.

  • Who Will Top the Cubs’ Power Rankings? New Star Projected to Lead in Homers

    Who Will Top the Cubs’ Power Rankings? New Star Projected to Lead in Homers

    As the Cubs get ready to kick off the season in Japan, the buzz is building around their newest guy Kyle Tucker. Traded from the Houston Astros, Tucker is supposed to bring the power the Cubs have been missing for years. According to Andrew Simon of MLB.com, Tucker is projected to hit 31 homers in 2025, which would end the Cubs’ 5 year drought of not having a 30 homer guy.

    Why Kyle Tucker is the Cubs’ Missing Piece

    The Cubs have been looking for a power hitter since Kris Bryant hit 30 in 2019. Last year Ian Happ led the team with 25 homers, so clearly they need a real slugger. Tucker, a former Astros star, is that guy.

    At 28 years old, Tucker is in his prime and has already shown he can bring power and consistency. Over the last 4 years he’s been a mainstay in the Astros lineup, hitting 30 homers twice and 29 in 2023. Even in an injury shortened 2024 season he hit .289/ .408/ .585 with 23 homers and 39 RBI in 78 games.

    What Makes Kyle Tucker Special?

    Tucker isn’t a home run hitter—he’s a threat. Over the last 4 seasons he’s been the epitome of consistency in the middle of the Astros’ order. Even with only 78 games in 2024, he put up some nice numbers:

    • Batting Average: .289
    • On-Base Percentage: .408
    • Slugging Percentage: .585
    • Home Runs: 23
    • RBIs: 39

    If he had played a full season his home run total could have easily been 40. He generates power while getting on base, that’s a perfect fit for the Cubs.

    Andrew Simon of MLB.com has Tucker projected to hit 31 home runs in 2025. That seems about right but he could do more. In the first half of 2024 he showed signs of unlocking a new level of power in his swing.

    Can Tucker End the Cubs’ Home Run Drought?

    The Cubs haven’t had a player hit 30 or more home runs since 2019 when Kris Bryant did it. With Tucker now on board that streak should end. At 28 years old he’s just entering his prime and his left handed bat should thrive at Wrigley Field which is hitter friendly.

    As long as Tucker stays healthy he has the tools to not only lead the Cubs in home runs but be one of the most feared hitters in the National League.

  • Chicago Cubs Release Five Players, Including Pitcher from Bellinger Trade

    Chicago Cubs Release Five Players, Including Pitcher from Bellinger Trade

    The Cubs are gearing up for their March 18 opener in Japan and need to get their roster finalized before most other teams. As part of that, the Cubs made their first cuts on Saturday and sent five pitchers to minor league camp. One of them was Cody Poteet, the guy we got in the Cody Bellinger trade, so he won’t break camp with the big club.

    The Players Cut from Cubs’ Major League Camp

    According to Bleacher Nation‘s Brett Taylor, the Cubs sent the following five pitchers to minor league camp on Saturday:

    • Caleb Kilian
    • Cody Poteet
    • Jack Neely
    • Gavin Hollowell
    • Riley Martin

    None of these moves are a surprise. Riley Martin hasn’t entered his options years yet so he was always going to the minor league. The other four—Kilian, Poteet, Neely, and Hollowell—are all on the 40-man roster with options so the Cubs can send them down without exposing them to waivers.

    Why Cody Poteet’s Cut Stands Out?

    Poteet, acquired in the trade that sent Cody Bellinger to the Dodgers, won’t make the team out of camp this spring. A 4th round pick in 2015, Poteet took his time getting to the bigs, debuting in 2021 as a starter. He moved to relief in 2022 and then had Tommy John surgery soon after and missed all of 2023.

    He’s back in 2024 with the Yankees and has a 2.22 ERA and 188 ERA+ in 5 appearances (4 starts). Despite his solid season last year the Cubs view him as AAA depth for now. Taylor says Poteet will be in the Iowa rotation and will be ready to fill in if the big team gets hit with injuries.

    Caleb Kilian: Still Seen as Starting Depth

    Caleb Kilian, once a top prospect, is headed to Triple-A. Despite being out of options, the Cubs aren’t considering converting him to the bullpen. He’ll be starting depth, waiting in the wings in case of injury or need.

    Jack Neely and Gavin Hollowell: Future Bullpen Pieces

    Jack Neely and Gavin Hollowell are the Cubs’ top relief prospects. Both will be in the mix later this season or beyond as veteran arms depart next offseason. For now they’ll keep developing in the minors, getting occasional call-ups to the bigs until they can stick for an extended period.

    What This Means for the Roster?

    Narrowing Down the Active Roster

    These moves mean the Cubs are focusing on their Opening Day roster. With just weeks until the Japan opener, they’re prioritizing players who can help now and keeping developmental pieces like Neely and Hollowell around for spot duty.

    Starting Rotation and Bullpen Clarification

    The Cubs keeping Poteet and Kilian in the minors means they like their current rotation and bullpen depth. But both are insurance policies in case of injuries during the long MLB season.

  • Who’s on the Hot Seat? Every Cubs Player Out of Options Heading into 2025

    Who’s on the Hot Seat? Every Cubs Player Out of Options Heading into 2025

    As the Chicago Cubs head into the 2025 season, one of the biggest questions of roster management is who is out of minor-league options. This can impact who makes the Opening Day roster and who might be threatened with designation for assignment. With injuries to Nico Hoerner and Matt Shaw, the front office is paying close attention to the contract status of the players fighting for the bottom of the roster spots.

    What Does It Mean to Be Out of Options?

    When a player is out of options, it means they can’t be sent to the minors without being exposed to waivers. This puts pressure on the team to either keep the player on the big league roster or lose them to someone else. For the Cubs, this adds another layer of complexity as they finalize their 2025 roster.

    Gage Workman: A Rule 5 Draft Standout

    One of the hottest names this spring is infielder Gage Workman. The Cubs Rule 5 draft pick has looked good in spring training and is making a strong case to be on the Opening Day roster. But Rule 5 rules require him to be on the big league roster all season or the Cubs have to return him to the Tigers. The Cubs could also negotiate a trade with the Tigers to keep Workman’s rights and he’d get standard minor league options.

    Full List of Cubs Players Out of Options for 2025

    Here’s a breakdown of every Chicago Cubs player with less than five years of service time who is out of minor-league options for the 2025 season:

    Miguel Amaya, Catcher

    2025 is a big year for Miguel Amaya. After a strong second half in 2024, the Cubs may not see him as their everyday catcher. Carson Kelly will still spell him against lefties, but Amaya gets a chance to prove he’s the long term answer behind the plate.

    Vidal Bruján, Utility Infielder

    Acquired from the Marlins for Matt Mervis, Vidal Bruján is in the mix for the last bench spot. He’s utility and speed are valuable, but he’ll need to outperform Gage Workman and Nicky Lopez to make the team.

    Julian Merryweather, RHP

    Injuries limited Julian Merryweather in 2024 but he was a high leverage reliever for the Cubs in 2023. With a new bullpen featuring Eli Morgan, Ryan Pressly and Ryan Brasier, Merryweather will need to stay healthy and effective to make the roster.

    Tyson Miller, RHP

    Tyson Miller was a bright spot in the pen last year with a 2.15 ERA in 49 appearances. He’s going to be a key piece for the bullpen in 2025.

    Justin Steele, LHP

    Justin Steele is the ace of the rotation so there’s no way the Cubs would option him.

    Keegan Thompson, RHP

    Keegan’s future with the Cubs is uncertain. He was 2.67 in 24 appearances last year but his command is still an issue (14.2% walk rate) so he’s a likely candidate to be designated if the Cubs need to clear a roster spot.

    What’s Next for the Cubs?

    As the Cubs get down to Opening Day roster those three will be a big story. The decisions on Workman, Bruján and Thompson will impact the team’s depth and flexibility all season.

  • Caden Dana Dominates with 3 Perfect Innings as Angels Rally to Tie Cubs

    Caden Dana Dominates with 3 Perfect Innings as Angels Rally to Tie Cubs

    In a Cactus League game that had a little bit of everything the Angels and Cubs played to a 4-4 tie Thursday in Mesa, Arizona. Kyren Paris stole the show with a clutch two-run homer in the 9th inning to cap off a wild game where both teams had their moments. Here’s the recap.

    The Game: Paris Comes Through

    With two outs in the 9th and the Angels down 4-2 Kyren Paris stepped up and hit a tying two-run homer. This is Paris’ second game-tying hit in the 9th inning this spring and he’s a guy who rises to the occasion.

    “You can see the growth right in front of you,” Angels manager Ron Washington said of Paris. “It’s a totally different guy than last spring.”

    The Angels’ offense also got a boost from Tim Anderson who hit his first homer of the spring and walked. Anderson a two-time batting champ and non-roster invitee is making a case to be the Angels’ starting shortstop while Zach Neto is out.

    Pitching Report: Dana Shines After Mechanical Tweak

    Righty Caden Dana was lights out in three innings, striking out three and retiring all nine batters he faced. After struggling in his first outing (3 runs, didn’t get through two innings) Dana credits a mechanical adjustment for the turnaround.

    “It helped my fastball and gave me confidence through everything else,” Dana said. Starting in place of Jack Kochanowicz, who was sidelined due to illness, Dana delivered against a lineup full of Cubs major leaguers.

    Hans Crouse Continues Dominance

    Another standout on the mound was Hans Crouse , who pitched a perfect inning with two strikeouts. Crouse has been flawless this spring, retiring all six batters he’s faced while striking out five. His performance reinforces his status as a reliable arm in the Angels’ bullpen.

    Hitting Report: Anderson and Rada Shine

    Veteran shortstop Tim Anderson finally got his first hit of the spring (a homer) and the Angels dugout was electric. Anderson, a two-time batting champ, also walked and showed he could get on base. As a non-roster invitee Anderson is making a strong case to be the starting shortstop until Zach Neto gets back.

    Outfielder Nelson Rada made an impression not just with his bat but also with his hustle. After singling, Rada beat out what appeared to be a routine force play at second base, demonstrating the kind of energy that can change the course of a game.

    Defense Report: Stellar Plays Up the Middle

    Shortstop Scott Kingery showed off his defense with a backhand play on a ball up the middle. Then he threw a strike to the bag on the run and the fans and coaches were impressed.

    Double Play Chemistry

    Kingery teamed up with Tim Anderson to execute a crisp double play in the fifth inning. Their quick collaboration ended the frame and showcased the chemistry developing between the two middle infielders.

  • Cubs’ Second Baseman Nico Hoerner to Rehab, Miss Japan Games

    Cubs’ Second Baseman Nico Hoerner to Rehab, Miss Japan Games

    Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner won’t be going to Japan for the season-opening Tokyo Series against the Dodgers. The decision is to make sure he’s ready for the regular season and he’s still rehabbing from his right forearm flexor tendon surgery. Here’s what you need to know and how it affects the Cubs.

    Why Hoerner Is Staying Behind?

    Hoerner had surgery on October 11, 2023 and while he’s progressing well, he’s limited in Spring Training. The Cubs feel he’s best staying behind.

    Manager Craig Counsell emphasized that this is a positive development overall. “We are very much tracking toward domestic Opening Day of him being ready for that and prepared for that,” Counsell said. “His rehab has taken a step forward in the last three weeks. We’re in a really good spot.”

    The Cubs open their regular season on March 27 against the Diamondbacks in Arizona, and the goal is to have Hoerner fully healthy by then.

    The Japan Trip

    The Cubs play the Dodgers in a two-game series in Tokyo on March 18-19. That will take 10 days out of Spring Training and Hoerner won’t get the at-bats and reps he needs to be ready for the season.

    “He needs at-bats. He needs to play,” Counsell said. “The trip just doesn’t allow him to do that in the right way.”

    Instead of rushing Hoerner back, the Cubs are prioritizing his long-term health and readiness for the 162 game season.

    Who Steps In at Second Base?

    With Hoerner out for the Japan series, the Cubs will go with Vidal Brujan and Jon Berti at second base. Both will get to play in front of an international crowd.

    What About Matt Strahm?

    Third baseman Matt Strahm who suffered an oblique on February 5 is also a question mark for the Japan trip. Strahm is scheduled to see live pitching for the first time on Saturday and could make his Cactus League debut on Sunday.

    “Nothing is off the table with Matt,” Counsell said.

    Hoerner’s Importance to the Cubs

    Hoerner has been the Cubs’ best player over the last two seasons. In 2023-24 he had a 12.8 WAR (per FanGraphs) with 26 home runs and 94 stolen bases. He’s been one of the best defensive second basemen in the league (8th in the MLB with a +38 OAA over that span) and won a Gold Glove in 2023. Hoerner’s health is key to the Cubs and they’re not taking any chances with his recovery.