The Chicago Cubs have started the 2025 season with a bang, taking down the San Diego Padres 3-1 in their home opener. The win handed the Padres their first loss of the season, while showcasing the Cubs' growing dominance.
Ace Shota Imanaga was the standout performer, delivering a masterful 7 1/3 innings of pitching, allowing only one run. This follows up his strong outing in the Tokyo Series, where he threw four shutout innings against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Despite the Dodgers winning that game, Imanaga's early-season form has been a key highlight for the Cubs.
The Cubs' offense has been firing on all cylinders to start the season, leading the league with 63 runs. The New York Yankees are close behind with 62 runs, and the Dodgers sit far behind in third place with 47. This early surge is encouraging for Cubs fans, signaling the potential for an explosive season.
Offseason Acquisitions Paying Off
Hitting was a key focus for the Cubs in the offseason, and their moves are already paying off. Kyle Tucker, acquired in a trade with the Houston Astros, has been on fire, hitting four homers and batting .325. Seiya Suzuki has also contributed with four home runs.
Matt Shaw, the newly promoted starting third baseman, has had a rough defensive start but remains a top prospect with potential to provide power at the plate.
Catchers have been another bright spot for the Cubs. Miguel Amaya is hitting .300 with seven RBIs, and Carson Kelly, who was signed as a free agent, has been on a tear with a .417 average. He recently made history by hitting for the cycle for the first time in his career.
A Strong Start to the Season
With the Cubs now in first place, just half a game ahead of the St. Louis Cardinals, the team’s strong start has been promising. After a season where they just missed the playoffs, Cubs fans are hopeful that this year will be different.
Manager Craig Counsell’s calm demeanor has been a contrast to the impatience of Cubs fans, but his approach seems to be paying off. The season is still young, but the Cubs are already showing signs of a team poised to make a deep playoff run.
