The Chicago Cubs have begun the 2025 season with a 1-2 record, a start that, while not alarming in the context of a 162-game schedule, invites an examination of the team’s early performance and roster dynamics. The unique challenges posed by their mid-spring training trip to Tokyo have influenced roster decisions and player readiness as the Cubs transition into the regular season. A slow start does not necessarily indicate how the entire season will play out, but it does bring up key concerns about the team’s depth, preparation, and ability to handle the early hurdles of the long campaign ahead.
Following their return from Tokyo, the Cubs made several strategic moves to finalize their 26-man roster. Notably, infielder Matt Shaw, the organization’s top prospect, was added to the 40-man roster, necessitating the designation of right-handed pitcher Keegan Thompson for assignment. This decision underscores the club’s commitment to integrating young talent into the lineup, a strategy that has worked well for teams looking to develop a solid core of homegrown players. While Thompson had moments of effectiveness in previous seasons, his inconsistency likely led to the Cubs making a tough call on his future with the organization. The addition of Shaw signals the team’s readiness to rely on younger players who can provide an immediate spark offensively and defensively.
In the bullpen, the Cubs added right-hander Brad Keller to the 40-man roster, while designating Cody Poteet for assignment and recalling Eli Morgan from Triple-A Iowa. The bullpen has been an area of concern for the Cubs in recent years, often lacking the stability and dominance needed to close out tight games. Keller brings experience and depth to a group that will be tested frequently throughout the season, especially as the starting rotation finds its rhythm. Additionally, pitchers Tyson Miller and Ryan Brasier were placed on the 15-day injured list, and infielder Vidal Bruján was placed on the 10-day injured list, opening a spot for infielder Gage Workman. Injuries at this stage of the season are always concerning, as they disrupt team chemistry and force early adjustments to the lineup. However, these setbacks also provide opportunities for other players to step up and showcase their abilities in key moments.
The starting rotation features Justin Steele, Jameson Taillon, Shōta Imanaga, Matthew Boyd, and Ben Brown. Steele’s development into the team’s ace has been a welcome progression, and the Cubs will be leaning on him heavily to deliver quality starts throughout the season. Taillon, after an up-and-down 2024 season, has the experience and repertoire to provide stability in the middle of the rotation. Imanaga, making his MLB debut, carries high expectations after his success in Japan, and his transition to the major leagues will be closely monitored. Matthew Boyd brings a veteran presence to the staff, while Ben Brown is a young arm with the potential to make an impact. The Cubs will need strong performances from this group to stay competitive, especially with the bullpen still a question mark in the early going.
The bullpen includes a mix of new faces and returning arms, with Julian Merryweather being the sole holdover from the previous season. Bullpen management is often the difference between winning and losing tight games, and the Cubs will need their relievers to quickly establish roles and execute in high-pressure situations. With so many new arms in the mix, the coaching staff will be experimenting with different matchups and leverage situations to find the best combinations. The success of the bullpen will be a determining factor in how well the Cubs navigate the grind of the season.
The Cubs’ participation in the Tokyo Series, while valuable for global engagement, presented logistical challenges. Traveling internationally during spring training can disrupt player routines and complicate roster decisions. The time zone adjustments, long flights, and unique game environments create added difficulties that teams playing in these series must contend with. While growing baseball’s global reach is an important initiative, the Cubs’ experience highlights the need for teams participating in early-season international series to have a better transition plan. One potential solution would be for these teams to start spring training a few days earlier, allowing for a smoother transition into the regular season post-travel. This adjustment would give players more time to recover from the demands of travel and ensure that they are better prepared for the start of meaningful games. Without these modifications, teams could face an unfair disadvantage early in the season due to lingering effects of travel fatigue and disruptions to their regular spring training schedule.
As the season unfolds, several players are poised to make significant contributions. Kyle Tucker, acquired to bolster the outfield, is expected to be a cornerstone of the Cubs’ lineup. His offensive abilities, particularly his power and on-base skills, make him a key presence in the batting order. His ability to hit for both power and average will be crucial for a Cubs team that has struggled with offensive consistency in recent years. Having a player of Tucker’s caliber in the lineup should provide protection for other hitters and create more opportunities for run production.
Matt Shaw’s presence at first base was highly anticipated and is expected to have an immediate impact. As one of the top prospects in the organization, Shaw has shown the ability to hit at every level of the minor leagues. His development at the major league level will be one of the most intriguing storylines of the season. If he can adjust to major league pitching quickly, he could solidify himself as a key piece of the Cubs’ future. His defensive versatility also gives the team options in terms of how they structure their infield.
Pete Crow-Armstrong is known for his defensive skills in center field, and his development at the plate will be crucial for the team’s success. His glove and range make him an asset in the outfield, but his offensive consistency will determine just how valuable he can be. If he can improve his plate discipline and make consistent contact, he could become a key contributor both offensively and defensively. Young players like Crow-Armstrong will play an essential role in determining how competitive the Cubs can be this season and in the future.
Shōta Imanaga, making his MLB debut, is expected to be a stabilizing force in the rotation. Transitioning from Japanese professional baseball to Major League Baseball presents unique challenges, as hitters in MLB tend to be more aggressive and have a different approach at the plate. Imanaga’s ability to adjust to these differences will be crucial. If he can effectively mix his pitches and limit hard contact, he has the potential to be a frontline starter. His early outings will provide insight into how well he is adapting and what kind of impact he can have on the Cubs’ pitching staff.
Justin Steele, as the ace of the staff, will be pivotal in anchoring the starting rotation. His ability to consistently go deep into games and limit damage will be a significant factor in the Cubs’ success. Steele has shown flashes of being one of the better left-handed starters in the league, and the Cubs will be relying on him to set the tone for the pitching staff. If he can maintain his command and continue to build on his success from previous seasons, he has the potential to be a Cy Young contender.
Here’s the thing folks: The Cubs’ performance over the first three games reflects the complexities of roster management and player readiness following international commitments. Adjusting to these circumstances takes time, but it also presents opportunities for growth and learning. The key for the Cubs will be how quickly they can establish consistency and overcome the challenges that have arisen early in the season. A 1-2 start is not a definitive indicator of how the season will unfold.
With that… The contributions of both seasoned veterans and emerging talents will be critical in navigating the challenges ahead. With the right adjustments and improvements, the Cubs have the pieces to be competitive and make a push as the season progresses. The early struggles should serve as motivation to refine their approach, build chemistry, and establish an identity that can carry them through the marathon of a baseball season.
If you cannot play with them, then root for them.