The Chicago Cubs kicked off their 2025 season with great anticipation as they faced the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field in Phoenix on Thursday, March 27, 2025. This matchup marks the official Opening Day for Major League Baseball, following the Cubs' earlier games in Japan against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the Tokyo Series.
The Cubs, who finished the previous season with an 83-79 record for the second consecutive year, made notable changes to their roster during the offseason. The most significant addition is All-Star right fielder Kyle Tucker, who was acquired from the Houston Astros in a four-player trade. Tucker, a three-time All-Star, is expected to bring a powerful presence to the Cubs' lineup, despite being limited to just 78 games last year due to injuries. In those games, he still managed to hit 23 home runs and drive in 49 runs with an impressive .289/.408/.585 slash line.
As the Cubs prepare for their first games on American soil in 2025, they are eager to bounce back from a disappointing sweep by the Dodgers in Japan. The starting pitcher for the Cubs on Opening Day is Justin Steele, who has been one of the team's most reliable arms over the past few seasons, boasting a 3.10 ERA and 437 strikeouts in 78 starts. Steele faced challenges in his last outing against the Dodgers, giving up five runs in just four innings, but the Cubs are hopeful he can regain his form against the Diamondbacks.
The Cubs' Opening Day lineup features several familiar faces alongside their new star. Leading off is Ian Happ, who had an outstanding 2024 season, earning his third consecutive Gold Glove award by leading all National League left fielders with eight defensive runs saved and 11 outfield assists. Happ also contributed significantly at the plate, hitting 25 home runs and driving in 86 runs.
Following Happ in the batting order is Kyle Tucker, who will be looking to make an immediate impact in his new uniform. Seiya Suzuki, who transitions to designated hitter this season, has also been a consistent performer for the Cubs, hitting over 20 home runs and driving in more than 70 runs in each of the past two seasons.
Michael Busch, the Cubs' first baseman, had a solid rookie campaign with 21 home runs and 65 RBI, and he is expected to benefit from the protection provided by Happ, Suzuki, and Tucker in the lineup. Shortstop Dansby Swanson is eager to bounce back after a dip in performance last year, where he recorded fewer than 20 home runs and 80 RBI for the first time since 2019.
Nico Hoerner, who missed the Tokyo Series due to recovery from right flexor tendon surgery, is expected to make his season debut. Manager Craig Counsell has indicated that Hoerner is healthy enough to play second base, although it may take some time before he can resume his duties at shortstop.
Center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, known for his elite defense and speed, is a key asset for the Cubs, having stolen 27 bases in 30 attempts last season. Meanwhile, rookie third baseman Matt Shaw, who had a strong showing in the minors last year, is also set to make his mark in the lineup.
Behind the plate, Miguel Amaya is expected to split time with newly acquired Carson Kelly, who signed a two-year, $11.5 million contract this offseason. Amaya had a solid first year as the Cubs' primary catcher, slashing .232/.299/.357 with eight home runs and 47 RBI.
The Cubs' full 26-man roster includes a rotation featuring Steele, Jameson Taillon, Shota Imanaga, Matthew Boyd, and Ben Brown. The bullpen consists of Porter Hodge, Brad Keller, Julian Merryweather, Eli Morgan, Nate Pearson, Ryan Pressly, Colin Rea, and Caleb Thielbar. Currently, the team has several players on the injured list, including pitchers Javier Assad, Tyson Miller, Ryan Brasier, and infielder Vidal Bruján.
The game against the Diamondbacks is set to start at 9:10 p.m. and will be broadcast on Marquee Sports Network. This four-game series marks the beginning of a crucial stretch for the Cubs, who will continue their road trip with a three-game series against the Oakland Athletics in Sacramento after the Diamondbacks series.
As the Cubs embark on this new season, fans are filled with hope and excitement. The addition of Tucker and the return of key players could be the ingredients needed to push the team further in the competitive National League Central. With a mix of veteran talent and promising young prospects, the Cubs are poised to make a significant impact in 2025.
After their series in Arizona, the Cubs will finally return home to Wrigley Field to face the San Diego Padres on Friday, April 4, at 1:20 p.m. This home opener is highly anticipated by fans who have been waiting to see their team play at the Friendly Confines. Following the Padres, the Cubs will host the Texas Rangers, the reigning world champions of 2023, in a three-game series that promises to be a highlight of the early season.
As the Cubs take the field today, all eyes will be on Justin Steele and the new-look lineup as they aim to start the season on a high note against the Diamondbacks. The excitement of Opening Day is palpable, and the Cubs are ready to show what they can do in 2025.
