Thursday marks an unofficial holiday in the United States. Baseball returns for a marathon that doesn't end until early November. Opening Day not only represents the return of regular-season baseball, but it also brings hope, optimism, and the constant case of what-ifs over 162 games.
For the Chicago Cubs, 2024 marks the return of high expectations after 2023 established the bar. The North Siders entered last season not expected to make much noise but contended for most of the season and narrowly missed the postseason. Now, it's about taking the next step and making the playoffs.
The club looks a bit different from this time last year as David Ross is out as manager, a chair now filled by Craig Counsell. Beyond the perceived upgrade at manager, the team retained Cody Bellinger on a reasonable deal, replaced Marcus Stroman with Shota Imanaga, and added a high-upside bat in Michael Busch. Additionally, Chicago expects leaps from Seiya Suzuki, Miguel Amaya, Christopher Morel, and others to properly complement the core of Ian Happ, Nico Hoerner, and Dansby Swanson.
Cubs' Finishing Touches for Opening Day 2024
On Thursday, the Cubs officially released their Opening Day roster, which didn't include many surprises. Busch, Luke Little, and Jordan Wicks were among Cubs' prospects to make the cut.
This group is ready to run. Experience in the bullpen, upside in the rotation, and a deeper lineup than last season heighten the expectations for 2024. The Cubs aren't perfect, but they should be better.
Furthermore, the Cubs are preparing to improve their in-game experience at Wrigley Field. As spotted by a fan near the Friendly Confines, the stadium's lights now change colors and have red and blue built in.
It's a new look for a new season with new expectations for the Cubs. The 2024 campaign is about winning games, building for the future, and making the most of the present.
It all starts on Thursday in the Lonestar State. The Cubs open against the the defending World Series champion Texas Rangers with first pitch scheduled for 6:35 PM CT. Justin Steele will take the ball for the Cubs opposite Nathan Eovaldi for the Rangers.
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