Spring training is in full swing for MLB teams as they gear up for the 2025 season opener with the Tokyo Series. The Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers have jumped ahead of the competition by starting their camps a few days earlier than the rest of the league. These two teams faced off in the first official spring training game, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting season.
As the Cubs and Dodgers showcased their talents in these early matchups, several key observations emerged that are worth monitoring as the season progresses. With less than three weeks until their flights to Japan, here are six takeaways from the first two Cactus League games between these two powerhouse teams.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto Impresses with Nasty Cutter:
Yoshinobu Yamamoto took the mound for the Dodgers, displaying a dominant performance with his arsenal of pitches. Despite a shoulder injury that interrupted his 2024 season, Yamamoto showcased a particularly devastating cutter that caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. With his fast-paced performance on the mound, Yamamoto’s cutter proved to be a formidable weapon worth watching in the upcoming season.
Bobby Miller Recovers from Scary Comebacker:
Dodgers’ pitcher Bobby Miller faced a frightening moment during the game when he was struck on the head by a line drive. Fortunately, Miller escaped serious injury and is expected to resume throwing soon. As he navigates through spring training, Miller’s recovery and performance will be closely monitored as he vies for a spot on the Dodgers’ roster.
Gage Workman Makes Strong Impression:
Rule 5 pick Gage Workman made a bold statement with his performance, demonstrating his defensive prowess and offensive capabilities. As he competes for a place on the Cubs’ roster, Workman’s aggressive approach at the plate and solid defensive skills have garnered attention from both fans and coaches, highlighting his potential impact on the team.
Daniel Palencia’s High-octane Pitching:
Pitcher Daniel Palencia showcased his impressive fastball, reaching speeds up to 101.3 mph during the game. With his exceptional strikeout rate and powerful pitching, Palencia presents a formidable presence on the mound, signaling his potential impact on the Cubs’ pitching rotation.
Zyhir Hope’s Defensive Skills Shine:
Zyhir Hope, one of the youngest players in spring training, displayed exceptional defensive skills in the outfield. Traded to the Dodgers, Hope’s development as a defender will be crucial in solidifying his status as a top prospect. As he continues to refine his defensive abilities, Hope’s performance in the outfield is expected to elevate his overall potential as a player.
Introduction of ABS Challenge System:
The introduction of the ABS (automated ball-strike) challenge system added a new dimension to the game, allowing teams to challenge ball and strike calls. With the system in its testing phase, managers and players navigated the challenges seamlessly, showcasing the potential benefits of the system for both entertainment and game strategy.
These early spring training games between the Cubs and Dodgers have set the stage for an exciting season ahead. As teams fine-tune their rosters and strategies, fans can anticipate a thrilling Tokyo Series opener and a competitive MLB season filled with compelling storylines and standout performances.