Cubs Aim for Continued Dominance in Spring Training Showdown Against Rangers

MESA, Ariz. — The Chicago Cubs are set to face the Texas Rangers today in their first road matchup of the 2025 spring training season at Sloan Park. The game is scheduled to start at 2:05 PM CT and marks a significant opportunity for both teams to evaluate their rosters ahead of the upcoming regular season.

Homegrown pitcher Cody Bradford will take the mound for the Rangers, while the Cubs will send out right-hander Colin Rea. This matchup comes as the Cubs enter the game undefeated through three contests, looking to build on their early momentum.

The Cubs lineup features five players expected to be starting on Opening Day, with Ian Happ leading off in left field, followed by Kyle Tucker as designated hitter and Seiya Suzuki in right field. “This lineup has the potential to be something special, and we want to establish that early on,” said Cubs manager David Ross.

Conversely, the Rangers, who have struggled in spring training so far with an 0-2 record, aim to harness their youth and experience. Key players for Texas include Marcus Semien at second base and Corey Seager at shortstop, who will look to provide offensive stability.

Boston acquired the player expected to bat cleanup for the Cubs, Michael Busch, who is out today. Instead, manager Ross mentioned there may be room for adjustments as the spring progresses. “We’re figuring out how our lineup will look, and competitions are still open,” he said.

This spring training period is vital for the players to showcase their skills and secure permanent spots on the team. The league is full of young talent, and both teams are looking to see how their prospects perform under pressure. Cubs’ general manager Carter Hawkins noted that “the first few weeks of spring training are crucial for assessing the progress of our young talent.”

Fans can catch the game on 105.3 The Fan and watch via MLB.TV, and anticipation is building with each game played in this competitive environment. With both teams adjusting their rosters, the focus will be not only on team performance but also on individual development.

As for the Cubs, they are embracing the early success in spring training but remain cautious. “Winning now is great, but we know it doesn’t necessarily translate to regular-season success,” Ross emphasized. The team aims to build solid chemistry that will serve them well as the season nears.

Today’s game promises to be an exciting encounter, reflecting the optimism for both franchises as they work out their lineups. Fans from both sides will be hoping to see standout performances from their key players as they embark on their paths toward the regular season.