Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (2/20/25): Cubs 12, Dodgers 4 – Baseball Is Back!

The Cubs began the 2025 Cactus League season against the Dodgers at Camelback Ranch Thursday afternoon. Despite having only had one regular in the starting lineup, the Cubs put up big numbers with the bats and cruised to an easy opening victory.

Los Angeles jumped ahead on Cubs starter Cody Poteet with three runs in the bottom of the 2nd with the big blow coming on a two-run homer by Eddie Rosario. Craig Counsell‘s squad answered back immediately with a six-run top of the 3rd.

The rally began on a scary note when Michael Busch hit a line drive RBI single off of the head of Dodgers pitcher Bobby Miller. Thankfully, Miller was able to walk off the field. Catcher Reese McGuire had the big blow in the frame with a two-run double.

Gage Workman hit a two-run homer in the 5th inning and Ivan Brethowr added a three-run bomb in the 8th to give the Cubs 12 runs. They would go on to win by a score of 12-4. (Box score)

Key Moment

Chicago responded immediately to giving up three runs by scoring six of their own in the top of the 3rd.

Why the Cubs Won

Scoring 12 runs in a game is usually going to lead to a victory and that was certainly the case Thursday.

Stats That Matter

• Busch, the only Cubs regular playing in this one, had two hits in three at-bats.
• Kevin Alcántara also had a pair of hits and an RBI.
• Daniel Palencia touched 101 mph on the radar gun during his one inning of scoreless relief.

Bottom Line

This game had very little importance but it’s the first of the year which is always a great day. This is an unusual spring training for the Cubs with the early start to the regular season in Japan. Things are going to speed up quickly in terms of how and when veteran players get into games. Just something to keep in mind the next couple of weeks.

On Deck

The Cubs welcome the Dodgers to Sloan Park for the home opener on Friday at 2pm CT. Jordan Wicks gets the start in the game available on Marquee and 670 The Score.