Cubs vs Rockies — It’s the Home Opener … which means it’s freezing cold and rainy! Because of course! I’ll still be there out in the right field bleachers cheering on Seiya Suzuki and the Cubs. It’s just that I’m thinking about wearing long underwear for this one. In fact, yeah, I will be. It’s a veteran move and you can’t tell me otherwise.
I’m going to try to be at Nisei Lounge before the game, with some other BN writers (Eli and Luis). Unfortunately, Brett (back, 15-Day IL) is out injured for this one and can’t make it. He’s legitimately heartbroken about it, and he’ll be missed.
In any case, the Cubs escaped Texas with one convincing (albeit late-earned) win in the finale, but they were a blown save away from taking two of three on the road against the reigning champs, so not terrible start to the season. Really, if it weren’t for the Justin Steele injury, I’d feel pretty good right now. There’s a lot to like all around the diamond.
There’s a little less to say about Yan Gomes, Miguel Amaya, Nico Hoerner, and Mike Tauchman (for one reason or another), but I think the overall narrative here is very positive … offensively, at least.
Defensively, the Cubs have had some issues that they’ll have to clean up. But that’s a little surprising, because with the exception of third base, this is a pretty sound defensive roster. And as far as starting pitching goes, you know the deal. Losing Jameson Taillon and (more importantly) Justin Steele at the same time is bruuuuuutal. So here’s hoping Shota Imanaga, who’s making his first MLB start today at Wrigley, looks exactly as good as he did in the Spring.
Speaking of which, it’ll be Imanaga today, Javier Assad tomorrow, and then we’re still TBD on Wednesday, which would’ve been Justin Steele’s start. It’s possible the Cubs try to piggyback Drew Smyly and Ben Brown for that one, but we might need to see how these next two games go before being sure.
The Rockies are one of the worst teams in baseball this year, and they opened up the season dropping three of four to the Diamondbacks in Arizona. The Cubs should really take at least two of three this week, that is … if the Cubs are even able to get all three games in (the weather).
Cubs vs Rockies – Pitching Probables:
Game 1: Monday, April 1 at 1:20 CT at Wrigley Field
Broadcast Info: Marquee Sports Network, 670 The Score
Game 2: Tuesday, April 2 at 6:40 CT at Wrigley Field
Broadcast Info: Marquee Sports Network, 670 The Score
Game 3: Wednesday, April 3 at 6:40 CT at Wrigley Field
Broadcast Info: Marquee Sports Network, 670 The Score