Curveballs and Contenders: The Wild Race for the Cubs’ 5th Starter Spot

Game On: This Week's Inside Scoop on The Cubs!

Pitching Showdown: Cubs' Search for Taillon's Temporary Replacement

It’s been a bumpy ride for Drew Smyly this Spring, with stats that make even the most optimistic fan wince – 11⅔ innings, 10 runs, and 4 homers. It's like he's serving up beach balls at a home run derby! With Jameson Taillon likely starting the year on the DL, Smyly's shot at the 5th starter role seems to be slipping through his fingers faster than a greased fastball.

Javier Assad, another hopeful, hasn't fared much better, letting through 13 hits and 7 earned runs in just over 8.2 innings. He looked serviceable yesterday against the Rangers. But here's where it gets interesting: Ben Brown is emerging as the dark horse, dazzling with a 0.90 ERA over 10 innings. Despite walking 4 batters, he's been nothing short of excellent.

The big question remains: Will the Cubs bank on the seasoned arms of Smyly or Assad, or will Brown's spring dominance earn him a surprise spot? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure – it's going to be an exciting season at Wrigley!

Backup Battle at 1B: Sluggers Setting the Stage

Talk about surprises, Dom Smith has been turning heads in Arizona, swinging his way into the conversation for the 26th-man slot with a whopping .412 average and a 1.091 OPS. Yes, you read that right! And let's not forget Garrett Cooper, who's not far behind, boasting a .353 average and a staggering 1.241 OPS.

Both players, on minor league deals, are showing they're not just here for a good time but a long time, potentially shaking up the roster. Sorry, Matt Mervis, but the DH/Backup 1B spot is getting a little crowded. It's a good problem to have, though, showcasing the depth and talent waiting in the wings..

Players of the Week

This week, our Superfans spotlight shines bright on Shota Imanaga and Seiya Suzuki. Imanaga, in a dazzling display against the A's, struck out nine over 4⅓ shutout innings, leaving fans and critics alike buzzing with excitement. It's performances like these that remind us why we love the game – the sheer unpredictability and thrill of potential greatness unfolding before our eyes.

Suzuki, not to be outdone, continues to capture our hearts both on and off the field. His dedication and performance have quickly made him a fan favorite, embodying what it means to be a Cub. Together, Imanaga and Suzuki represent the spirit and promise of the Cubs' future – a future we're all eagerly watching unfold.

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