The Cubs and Dodgers kicked off their spring training with a head start due to their upcoming Tokyo Series to open the 2025 MLB season. They faced off in the first official game of spring training at Camelback Ranch, followed by a rematch in Mesa. Despite only a portion of the starters playing, these games provided some notable moments and storylines to watch for as the spring progresses. With less than three weeks until their flights to Japan, here are six observations from the initial Cactus League games between the Cubs and Dodgers.
1. Yoshinobu Yamamoto showcased a nasty cutter during his outing for the Dodgers on Thursday. Despite a shoulder injury in 2024, Yamamoto had a successful rookie season and impressed with his pitch velocity.
2. Bobby Miller experienced a scary moment when he was hit by a line drive during his spring debut. Fortunately, he avoided serious injury and is expected to resume pitching soon, aiming to secure a spot on the Dodgers’ roster.
3. Gage Workman, a Rule 5 pick from the Tigers, made a strong impression for the Cubs with his powerful left-handed swing and impressive defensive plays. He faces stiff competition for a roster spot but is determined to prove himself during spring training.
Overall, these early spring training games between the Cubs and Dodgers set the stage for an exciting season ahead, with players showcasing their skills and competing for valuable roster spots.
He had a large support system of friends and family present at both games, cheering enthusiastically after his impressive home run.
“The family has been eagerly anticipating spring training,” Workman stated, “perhaps even more than me.”
Daniel Palencia showcases his talent
Another player vying for a spot on the Cubs roster this spring is 25-year-old right-hander Daniel Palencia. Despite a 5.02 ERA in 43 major-league innings over the past two seasons, Palencia is known for possessing exceptional skills. He displayed his prowess by throwing a blazing 101.3 mph fastball to strike out Ryan Ward on Friday, reaching as high as 102.5 mph in the minors last year.
Palencia boasted a impressive 39.5% strikeout rate in Triple-A last season, ranking third among relievers with at least 30 innings. However, his 12.8% walk rate hindered his overall performance. Although the addition of veteran pitchers in the Chicago bullpen makes Palencia’s chances of making the team slim, his talent could earn him significant opportunities if he can make the necessary adjustments to improve his command. Keep an eye on this promising player.
Zyhir Hope shines defensively
At just 20 years old, Zyhir Hope is one of the youngest players in spring training. Acquired by the Dodgers from the Cubs in exchange for Michael Busch, Hope made a name for himself in 2024 with his impressive performance at the plate in Low-A. He continued to showcase his skills in the Arizona Fall League.
During the Dodgers’ games against his former team, Hope made two outstanding catches in left field on Thursday. While known for his batting abilities, Hope’s development as a defender, particularly in center field, could elevate his status from a good prospect to an elite one.
Introduction of the ABS challenge system
More significant than individual player performances was the debut of the ABS (automated ball-strike) challenge system, unveiled by MLB during spring media day. Approximately 60% of games this spring will feature Hawkeye tracking technology, allowing each team to challenge two ball/strike calls per game.
Camelback Ranch is among the ballparks implementing ABS this spring, and the system was put to the test early on. In a game on Thursday, Cubs pitcher Cody Poteet successfully challenged a call on a pitch to Max Muncy, leading to a strikeout. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts humorously mentioned that Muncy was not allowed to challenge calls, only to have Muncy himself challenged during the game.
While still in the testing phase, the challenge system received positive feedback for its seamless integration and potential entertainment value. Coaches like Counsell see the benefits and believe fans will enjoy the interactive aspect of the system.