As the Chicago Cubs kicked off Cactus League play against the White Sox, fans got their first glimpse of what could be an intriguing season ahead. While the Cubs fell 8-1, the results of these early games aren't the main focus-it's the insights we gain that matter. Let’s dive into three key takeaways from the opener that could shape the Cubs' journey toward the regular season.
Seiya Suzuki’s Power Surge
Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki wasted no time making an impact, launching the team's first home run of spring training. Facing a 2-2 fastball from White Sox pitcher Jonathan Cannon, Suzuki sent the ball soaring over the left-center fence at a blistering 103.7 mph. This early display of power is a promising sign for the Cubs.
In 2025, Suzuki made waves by becoming more aggressive at the plate, a shift that paid off with 31 home runs, a significant jump from the 55 he hit over his first three seasons combined. With Kyle Tucker no longer in the lineup, Suzuki’s role as a power hitter becomes even more crucial for the Cubs' offensive success in 2026. His consistent production, highlighted by wRC+ scores of 118, 127, 137, and 123 over his first four MLB seasons, underscores his potential to become an elite hitter.
As Suzuki approaches free agency, the motivation to have a standout power year is even greater. If he can maintain or exceed his 2025 performance, Suzuki could be poised for a memorable season.
Porter Hodge's Early Struggles
Spring training can be a tricky time for pitchers, and Porter Hodge's outing on Friday was a testament to that. After a breakout 2024 season, Hodge faced challenges in 2025, struggling with injuries and consistency. His performance against the White Sox highlighted the difficulties he’s encountered, as he threw 25 pitches with only eight finding the strike zone.
Hodge’s 20% CStr+Whiff rate from the game is concerning, especially with fierce competition for bullpen spots following the front office's acquisition of five relievers in free agency. While spring training is not the time to panic, Hodge needs to make a strong impression to secure his place on the Opening Day roster. Fortunately, he still has time to regain his form and prove his worth to the team.
Overall, while the Cubs' opening game might not have ended in victory, the performances of Suzuki and Hodge offer a glimpse into the potential and challenges that lie ahead. As spring training progresses, these storylines will continue to develop, setting the stage for an exciting season.