The Chicago White Sox are kicking off their 2026 Spring Training schedule with a much-anticipated crosstown clash against the Chicago Cubs. Fans are buzzing with excitement as the Sox lineup will feature the debut of Japanese powerhouse Munetaka Murakami. On the mound, right-hander Jonathan Cannon will be leading the charge as Cactus League play begins.
Set for a 2:05 p.m. CST start at Sloan Park, the Cubs’ Spring Training home, this game marks the beginning of Cactus League action for both teams. It’s an early opportunity to see how offseason changes might play out, especially as the White Sox look to rebound from a challenging 60-102 season in 2025.
A Highly Anticipated Debut
Munetaka Murakami, a 26-year-old slugger who inked a two-year, $34 million deal in December, is ready to make his mark in the White Sox lineup. Known for his record-breaking 56 home runs in the 2022 Nippon Professional Baseball season, Murakami brings a much-needed power boost.
His versatility has already turned heads in Glendale, with solid defensive work at both first and third base. Expect to see a lot of him this spring as the Sox gauge his impact against major league pitching.
Cannon Gets the Start
Jonathan Cannon is set to take the mound for Chicago’s initial exhibition game. The 25-year-old right-hander is coming off a season where he posted a 4-10 record with a 5.82 ERA over 22 appearances. With a crowded rotation battle unfolding, Cannon is one of the first to showcase his skills.
Manager Will Venable has named Cannon as one of the early spring starters, alongside Chris Murphy and Sean Burke, who will pitch in the subsequent games against the Athletics and Brewers, respectively. After showing promise as a rookie in 2024, Cannon is eager to bounce back from a tough 2025 and set the tone for the season.
As Spring Training unfolds, keep an eye on the new automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system making its MLB debut. It’s a fresh twist that teams will be navigating throughout the preseason, offering a glimpse into how it might shape the game moving forward.