The Chicago Cubs are set to begin their 2026 spring training on Wednesday in Mesa, Arizona, building on last year's postseason appearance. Key storylines include the integration of new third baseman Alex Bregman and decisions for the pitching staff. The team aims to surpass their 2025 Wild Card berth and contend for the National League Central title.
The Chicago Cubs' journey toward sustained success starts with spring training workouts for pitchers and catchers at their Mesa, Arizona, complex on Wednesday. Following a postseason run last fall that marked the start of a hoped-for new era of winning, the Cubs seek to win the National League Central and extend their October presence beyond the Wild Card round achieved in 2025.
Manager Craig Counsell emphasized the thrill of playoff experience during last month's Cubs Convention. "You want to go through that month and have a blast," Counsell said. "I think everybody who experienced it [last] year -- the players, specifically -- you felt it. And you felt how special it is. Then you sit there and try to describe it, and you just say the best way is just to be there again. So that’s what we’re trying to do."
A major focus is Alex Bregman, signed to a five-year, $175 million contract after previous unsuccessful pursuits. President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer praised Bregman's character: "Whenever you’re going to make a significant commitment in years and dollars to a player, you have to feel great about the person, about the human you’re investing in. And I couldn’t feel better about that with Alex. People that have spent time around Alex know that he is obsessed with hitting, obsessed with winning."
Bregman takes over at third base, pairing with Dansby Swanson at shortstop and Nico Hoerner at second to create an elite infield defense. His leadership, honed in Houston and Boston, could guide the young core. Bregman has already impressed off-field by engaging teammates and staff.
The pitching staff presents challenges. Newly acquired right-hander Edward Cabrera, from the Marlins in a trade involving prospect Owen Caissie, draws attention. Shota Imanaga, after a tough 2025, prioritizes delivery tweaks over the World Baseball Classic. Cade Horton enters his first full MLB season post-rookie year. Potential rotation spots may shift Colin Rea, Ben Brown, Javier Assad, and Jordan Wicks to the bullpen.
Relief additions include Phil Maton, Hoby Milner, Jacob Webb, and Hunter Harvey, alongside returnees Daniel Palencia and Caleb Thielbar. Roster decisions loom for swingmen and final spots, with more moves possible.
Infield depth is tested by Bregman's arrival, shifting Matt Shaw to a utility role across infield and potentially outfield positions. With Hoerner contracted only through 2026, this dynamic will unfold through spring and beyond.
