Cubs Spring Training: A Surprise Victory and Promising Performances
In a surprising turn of events out in Surprise, the Cubs snagged their first victory of the spring season. Despite entering the game with an 0-3 record and fielding a lineup filled with Triple-A players and prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong, the Cubs managed to topple the Royals' main squad.
Pitching Highlights: Ben Brown set the tone on the mound, delivering two scoreless innings.
He was followed by Javier Assad, who continued the trend with another scoreless frame. The Cubs' pitching staff, including promising prospect Jackson Kirkpatrick, Porter Hodge, and Ryan Rolison, kept the Royals at bay.
Tyler Ras did allow a solo homer to KC’s Josh Rojas in the eighth, but it wasn't enough to derail the Cubs' momentum.
Offensive Sparks: Jefferson Rojas provided a big highlight with a home run in the fourth inning.
Later, former Cubs prospect Alex Lange, now with the Royals, struggled with control, loading the bases. James Triantos took advantage, driving a pitch between first and second to bring in two crucial runs.
Key Takeaways:
- The Cubs' young talent showed resilience and potential, even against a more experienced lineup.
- Pitching depth looks promising, with several prospects stepping up effectively.
- The victory could be a confidence booster as the team continues to develop its roster.
Around the Cubs Camp:
- Sahadev Sharma from The Athletic reports on the integration of elite talent, data, and discipline shaping the Cubs' spring training.
- Maddie Lee highlights Cubs reliever Phil Maton's ongoing development, adding a new pitch to his arsenal.
- Paul Sullivan notes the Cubs' strategic low-risk signings to strengthen the bench, though Matt Shaw isn't considered for a backup role at first base.
- Maddie Lee also reports on Moises Ballesteros resolving visa issues and joining the camp, though he may not appear in early games.
- Wayne Drehs features Pete Crow-Armstrong, a fan favorite and one of baseball's exciting young talents.
- Patrick Mooney discusses opportunities for Seiya Suzuki in the World Baseball Classic and his contract year with the Cubs.
The Cubs' first win of the spring might just be the beginning of an intriguing season, filled with young talent eager to make their mark.