The Cactus League kicked off with a familiar result: a loss for the Cubs. But does it really matter? In the very first Spring Training game of 2026, the Chicago Cubs faced their crosstown rivals, the White Sox, and fell by a score of 8-1. Now, before you start to worry about the season ahead, let's be clear: in the grand scheme of baseball, this outcome is about as significant as a spring shower. Wins and losses in Spring Training are essentially meaningless until the real games begin on March 26th. Think of it as a dress rehearsal – the players are working out kinks, trying new things, and getting their arms and legs ready for the marathon ahead.
However, even in these exhibition games, there are always a few moments worth noting. For instance, Austin Hays managed to hit a home run off Cubs pitcher Jameson Taillon in the very first inning. Taillon also gave up another long ball in the second. Now, for seasoned fans, this might raise an eyebrow, but in early Spring Training, pitchers are often experimenting. They might be throwing exclusively fastballs to test their velocity or working on specific mechanics. So, while a homer isn't ideal, it's far from a cause for alarm at this stage.
But here's where it gets a bit more concerning... One player who struggled significantly was Porter Hodge. In the fourth inning, he faced six batters, walking four of them and giving up a crucial two-run double to the White Sox's new first baseman, Munetaka Murakami. It could have been worse, but Grant Kipp managed to induce an inning-ending double play. This outing for Hodge was particularly rough, with only 8 strikes out of 25 pitches. Hopefully, this was just a case of him 'working on something,' as his control seemed to be miles away from the strike zone.
On a more positive note, Gavin Hollowell made a strong impression in the sixth inning. He struck out all three batters he faced, and impressively, two of them were MLB hitters: Hays and Murakami. The third was the highly-touted White Sox prospect, Braden Montgomery. Hollowell, who has options and could be a bullpen piece, is definitely someone to keep an eye on as the spring progresses.
And this is the part most people miss... The game also featured three ABS (Automated Ball-Strike) challenges. One notable instance involved a pitch called a ball on White Sox pitcher Jonathan Cannon in the second inning, which was then successfully overturned on review. These challenges, when they work as intended, are designed to be quick and seamless. The umpire announces the decision, and the game moves on within seconds. This is precisely the vision for the ABS system – so integrated that you'll barely notice it during the regular season. While we might see more challenges in Spring Training as players get accustomed to the system, the aim is for it to become an almost invisible part of the game.
The atmosphere at Sloan Park was, as usual for a spring game, quite pleasant. Despite a slightly cool 60 degrees at game time, the sun was out, and the berm was dotted with fans seeking warmth. The announced attendance was 14,419, just shy of a sellout. It's still very early in the spring, and with many people yet to embark on their spring break or vacations, expect those numbers to climb as the season progresses.
Looking ahead, the Cubs will be back in action on Saturday afternoon at Sloan Park. Matthew Boyd is slated to start against the Texas Rangers, who will counter with Kumar Rocker on the mound. The game is scheduled for 2:05 p.m. CT, with coverage available on Marquee Sports Network and radio broadcasts on The Score and the Rangers' network.
So, while the scoreboard might have shown a loss for the Cubs, the real story is in the individual performances and the adjustments being made. What are your thoughts on the ABS system's implementation? Do you think it will truly become unnoticeable, or will it remain a point of contention? Let me know in the comments below!
