The Chicago Cubs are just days away from opening Cactus League play against the Chicago White Sox. Friday’s matchup will serve as their first spring training contest of the year, with the Texas Rangers scheduled for the following day.
While starting assignments in exhibition games don’t carry much weight, especially with pitchers typically limited to an inning or two early in camp, it’s notable that manager Craig Counsell is tabbing starters who are set to participate in the World Baseball Classic. That commitment played a role in how he structured the opening weekend rotation.
Chicago Cubs announce starting pitchers for their first two spring training games
Oct 4, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Matthew Boyd (16) reacts after being taken out of the game against the Milwaukee Brewers during the first inning of game one of the NLDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
According to Jordan Bastian of MLB.com, Jameson Taillon will take the ball Friday, with Matthew Boyd slated to start the following day. Taillon is set to represent Team Canada in the World Baseball Classic, while Boyd will suit up for Team USA, making it a priority for Counsell to get both pitchers on the mound early in camp.
“We’re kind of individualizing that (WBC players) a little bit at the beginning,” Counsell said. “Some guys won’t start for a couple days, because I don’t think they need to. But the WBC guys all definitely have more urgency to getting started.”
That added urgency makes sense given the condensed ramp-up period WBC participants face. Unlike pitchers staying in big-league camp all spring, Taillon and Boyd will soon transition into a more competitive environment. Getting them into game action early allows the Cubs to carefully build their workloads while ensuring they’re properly prepared for meaningful innings on an international stage.
It also reflects Counsell’s broader approach to spring training, balancing team needs with individualized plans. While Cactus League results are secondary, establishing rhythm and routine is not. For Taillon and Boyd, that process starts now, with an eye not only on the Cubs’ season but also on representing their respective countries in the weeks ahead.
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