The Cubs lost 8-1 to the White Sox in their first Cactus League matchup of 2026. While the result is meaningless in March, Seiya Suzuki launched a home run in his first spring at-bat, and Austin Hays also went deep. Jameson Taillon allowed two home runs but is not a concern early in the spring.
However, pitcher Porter Hodge struggled in the fourth inning, walking four of six batters faced. Gavin Hollowell impressed in relief, striking out all three batters he faced, including top prospect Braden Montgomery. The new ABS challenge system also worked seamlessly during the game.