The offseason has taken a productive turn for the Chicago Cubs, with numerous developments enhancing their competitive potential. The team has captured headlines following their notable induction of sensational outfielder Kyle Tucker into their batting lineup via a trade, signifying a potent addition to their offensive arsenal.
Furthermore, the Cubs have strategically added multiple critical elements to their squad, witnessing an improvement in their ensemble. A palpable air of anticipation surrounds the commencement of the new season, further amplified by Major League Baseball’s recent revelation of crucial dates that hold particular significance for the Cubs.
Among several significant matchups, some will critically assess the Cubs’ caliber to grapple effectively with top-tier teams within the National League. A crucial question entails the schedule for the Chicago Cubs to assemble for Spring Training. It is stated that the pitchers and catchers are set to commence their Spring Training on the 9th of February, with the full lineup to follow suit on the 14th.
Being part of the Cactus League has its perks, not least of which is that Chicago Cubs can engage in healthy rivalry with cross-town adversaries, the Chicago White Sox, and several other divisional opponents who share the league.
Spring Training is of paramount importance for the Cubs, offering crucial indicators of the team’s potential for the upcoming season. Several key positional duels are anticipated that could significantly shape the team’s dynamics. The primary contention is expected to take place for the position at third base.
At present, the Cubs’ brightest prospect, Matt Shaw, appears to be the strongest contender for the spot, assuming he maintains his performance levels. He’s set to face considerable competition from the likes of Vidal Brujan, acquired recently from Miami Marlins, and Gage Workman, the team’s selection from the Rule 5 Draft this offseason.
Apart from positional competitions, other compelling narratives to follow would be the integration of Kyle Tucker within the team, and how he adapts to playing in Wrigley Field once the Cubs move northwards.
The upcoming season’s schedule holds numerous exciting prospects for the Cubs. The team is set to kick-off the season with a thrilling stint in Japan, where they’ll face-off against the reigning World Series Champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers, in a strategically vital two-game series.
These games could offer a wealth of insight, especially considering the potential recruitment of Roki Sasaki by the Dodgers, a player who was on the Cubs’ pursuit radar.
Following their Japan visit, the Cubs will take part in two games in the esteemed Sunday Night Baseball slot, presenting an excellent opportunity to showcase their roster to a national audience. The team then gears up for a rematch with the Dodgers on April 13, where the Cubs journey to Los Angeles for another exciting outing.
As the month of April comes to a close, the Cubs are set for their final April appearance on Sunday Night Baseball, facing off against the National League East Champions, the Philadelphia Phillies.
Although these form just two series in April, they are expected to serve as important barometers of how the Cubs can perform against teams of playoff caliber. The Dodgers and the Phillies, widely agreed upon as the cream of the crop within the National League, present excellent competition.
Securing a series win against either team would significantly boost the morale of the Cubs’ camp and pave the way towards their playoff aspirations.