Cactus League Opener: White Sox vs. Cubs
As the Cactus League kicks off, baseball fans have plenty to look forward to with the White Sox taking on the Cubs at Sloan Park in Mesa, AZ. First pitch is set for 2:05 p.m.
CST. For those not in the stands, you can catch the action on Marquee Sports Network or tune in via radio with Cubs coverage on 670 The Score and White Sox on ESPN Chicago WMVP 1000 AM.
Probable Pitchers
Today's starting pitchers feature a pair of right-handers: Jonathan Cannon for the White Sox and Jameson Taillon for the Cubs. Cannon is looking to bounce back after a challenging 2025 season, while Taillon aims to set the tone for his team.
Starting Lineups
White Sox:
- Curtis Mead - 3B
- Kyle Teel - C
- Austin Hays - LF
- Munetaka Murakami - 1B
- Everson Pereira - RF
- Derek Hill - CF
- Sam Antonacci - 2B
- Korey Lee - DH
- Tanner Murray - SS
Cubs:
- Jonathon Long - 1B
- Alex Bregman - 3B
- Seiya Suzuki - CF
- Miguel Amaya - C
- Dylan Carlson - RF
- Chas McCormick - LF
- Pedro Ramirez - 2B
- BJ Murray - DH
- Scott Kingery - SS
Lineups are subject to change.
White Sox Updates
Jonathan Cannon Takes the Mound:
White Sox manager Will Venable announced Jonathan Cannon as the starter for the spring opener. After showing potential in 2024, Cannon aims to regain his form following a stint with Triple-A Charlotte last year.
Center Field Competition:
Luisangel Acuña is emerging as the frontrunner for the center field position. With his dynamic play, it's his spot to lose as the season approaches.
Catchers in Focus:
Edgar Quero and Kyle Teel are two young talents to watch. Quero is honing his power and framing skills, while Teel has bulked up with 20 pounds of muscle, eager to enhance his power at the plate.
Taylor's Strong Performance:
On Thursday, Taylor impressed observers with his sharp, aggressive pitching, a promising sign for the White Sox bullpen.
As the Cactus League begins, both teams are eager to showcase their offseason improvements and set the tone for the upcoming season. Grab your popcorn, because it's game time!