Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (3/22/26): Cubs 12, Brewers 0 – Opening Day Lineup Outstanding in Win
The Cubs took on the rival Brewers in the third-to-last game of the spring at Sloan Park on Sunday afternoon. Manager Craig Counsell went with what is likely to be his Opening Day lineup, and they did terrific work in a blowout victory.
Chicago went ahead with three runs in the bottom of the 2nd, including an RBI double by Moisés Ballesteros and a single by Dansby Swanson. Cade Horton started and was outstanding yet again, pitching six scoreless frames.
The North Siders expanded the lead to 5-0 with back-to-back home runs by Alex Bregman and Ian Happ in the bottom of the 3rd.Nico Hoerner hit a two-run double in the 5th, and then Ballesteros drove him home with another two-base hit to make it 8-0.
The Cubs added even more offense with the players from minor-league camp and would eventually win by a final of 12-0. (Box score)
Key Moment
Chicago broke the game open early and it was never really a contest after that.
Why the Cubs Won
Very good starting pitching and quality offense were more than enough to win Sunday.
Stats That Matter
- Horton had only three strikeouts but was still very effective and efficient.
- Bregman had a single to go with his home run.
- Hoerner also got on base two times.
Bottom Line
Sunday demonstrated just how deep the Cubs’ lineup is this season, and that did not include Seiya Suzuki, who is temporarily out with a knee injury. They should be a major problem for opposing pitchers all year.
On Deck
The Yankees make their first-ever trip to Sloan Park for two days beginning Monday at 2:05pm CT. Shōta Imanaga takes the mound in a game that will not be televised.
