The Chicago Cubs are set to begin their 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season with an exciting home opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Wrigley Field. The game, scheduled for March 28, marks the beginning of a fresh campaign for both teams, as they look to build on their performances from the previous season.
Cubs Aim to Improve on 2024 Performance
The Cubs finished the 2024 season with an 83-79 record, ranking third in the National League Central division. At home, they performed solidly with a 44-37 record, demonstrating resilience in front of their home crowd. Last season, the Cubs averaged 4.5 runs per game while allowing 4.1, showing a balanced approach on both offense and defense.
Key players such as Dansby Swanson, Cody Bellinger, and Seiya Suzuki are expected to lead the team this season. The Cubs’ pitching staff, anchored by Justin Steele and Shota Imanaga, will play a crucial role in their playoff aspirations.
Dodgers Enter as Strong Contenders
The Los Angeles Dodgers had an impressive 98-64 record in the 2024 season, finishing atop the National League West. They were a dominant force on the road, securing 46 wins away from Dodger Stadium. Their offense was a powerhouse, averaging 8.8 hits per game and hitting a total of 233 home runs throughout the season.
Led by stars such as Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers will be a formidable opponent for the Cubs. Their rotation, featuring Tyler Glasnow and Bobby Miller, remains one of the most competitive in the league.
Injury Report
Both teams will have to navigate early-season injuries. The Cubs will be without pitcher Javier Assad, who has been placed on the 15-day injured list (IL) due to an oblique strain.
The Dodgers are dealing with multiple injuries, including:
- Edgardo Henriquez (15-Day IL, foot)
- Tony Gonsolin (15-Day IL, back)
- Kyle Hurt (15-Day IL, elbow)
- Michael Grove (60-Day IL, shoulder)
- Emmet Sheehan (15-Day IL, elbow)
- Brusdar Graterol (60-Day IL, shoulder)
- Clayton Kershaw (15-Day IL, toe)
- Michael Kopech (15-Day IL, shoulder)
- Evan Phillips (15-Day IL, shoulder)
- River Ryan (60-Day IL, elbow)
- Gavin Stone (60-Day IL, shoulder)
With several key pitchers on the IL, the Dodgers may need to rely on their depth early in the season.
What to Expect from the Season Opener
The matchup between the Cubs and Dodgers is expected to be a thrilling one. The Cubs will look to start strong in front of their home fans, while the Dodgers aim to continue their dominance. Key storylines to watch include:
- Shohei Ohtani’s Regular Season Debut as a Dodger: The two-way superstar signed a record-breaking contract with Los Angeles in the offseason and will be a major draw for fans.
- Cubs’ Young Talent: Chicago’s emerging stars, including Pete Crow-Armstrong and Jordan Wicks, could play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s success.
- Pitching Duels: The Cubs’ starters will have to limit the explosive Dodgers lineup, which was among the best in baseball last year.
The 2025 MLB season opener at Wrigley Field is set to be a must-watch event. As both teams strive for a strong start, fans can expect an action-packed game filled with big plays, strategic pitching matchups, and the excitement of a new season.
