Cubs Claim Spring Training Finale with Late Heroics from McGeary

GLENDALE, Ariz. — The Chicago Cubs snapped a five-game losing streak in Spring Training with a thrilling victory over the Miami Marlins on March 25, 2025, as Haydn McGeary hit a two-run homer in the bottom of the eighth inning, sealing a comeback win at Sloan Park.

The Cubs were eager to avoid a winless Spring Training following their recent trip to Japan, where results are often considered inconsequential. However, achieving a victory was crucial for team morale and momentum heading into the regular season. Kyle Tucker started the scoring in the first inning with a single, followed by a walk from Seiya Suzuki, setting the stage for McGeary’s decisive moment later on.

“Yes, the final scores in spring games aren’t everything, but finishing on a high note is important for team spirit,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell said after the game. “Every win adds to our confidence as we move into the season.”

The Cubs made memorable defensive plays early in the game, highlighted by impressive performances from shortstop Matt Shaw and first baseman Michael Busch, who has shown potential as a Gold Glove contender this season.

“I feel like we don’t go very long without a defensive highlight from Pete Crow-Armstrong,” Counsell praised, reflecting on the outfielder’s consistent defensive contributions. “It’s great to see young talent step up.”

Marlins’ Bryan De La Cruz hit a two-run homer off Cubs pitcher Ben Brown, who otherwise performed admirably, pitching into the fifth inning and throwing over 70 pitches. Following the game, Counsell confirmed that Brown is slated to be the Cubs’ fifth starter. “If he stays healthy, his performance last year gives us hope he can be a significant asset this season,” he added.

The Cubs tied the game in the fifth inning with an RBI single from Carter Trice, a 12th-round pick from NC State. Trice’s ability to come through in clutch situations is a promising sign for his future with the team.

Attendance for the final spring game was impressive, with 12,099 fans present, contributing to a total of 218,401 for the spring training season at Sloan Park, averaging 12,487 attendees over 17 games, a slight drop from last year’s figures.

As the Cubs prepare for their season opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on March 28, the prospects of the season seem optimistic, especially with Justin Steele named as the starting pitcher for the opener against Zac Gallen at 9:10 p.m. CT, airing on Marquee Sports Network.

The victory was a much-needed boost for a team looking to return to postseason contention after a four-year playoff drought.