Cubs Blow Out M's 7-1 in Spring, But Here's Why Nobody's Panicking
Look, it was ugly. The Cubs walked into Peoria and absolutely dismantled the Mariners 7-1 in a spring training game that felt like it mattered way more than it should have this close to Opening Day. But before you start refreshing the trade deadline rumors, take a breath. This was spring training, the game got moved to night time to dodge a brutal heat wave scorching the West, and the M's brass is treating it exactly like what it was: a tune-up with less than a week until things get real.
Kirby's Got Issues, But Not the Ones You'd Think
George Kirby took the mound for Seattle and yeah, that first inning was sloppy. Not great when you're in your final dress rehearsal before the regular season kicks off. But here's the thing: by the time he left in the sixth, he'd only given up a single run. His fastball was sitting 96 to 98 mph all night, his slider was coming and going, and he threw some impressive changeups and splitters mixed in. Kirby's still that enigmatic arm, still working on his stuff, but there's enough there to feel okay about what's coming.
The Bats Went Silent Against a Real Cubs Lineup
Chicago sent mostly their big league hitters, guys they expect to play every day or handle significant roles this season. No Ian Happ, Alex Bregman, or Nico Hoerner, but still real talent. Colin Rea, the Cubs starter, had himself a smooth night against a mostly opening day M's lineup. Josh Naylor scattered some singles, but that was basically it. The offense was quiet.
Cole Young looked fine at shortstop without overextending himself. Cole Wilcox continues to impress, throwing another sharp inning in the ninth that has people wondering if he could help the club soon. Luke Raley reminded everyone why he's such a nice player when he's healthy, something Seattle basically never got out of him in 2025.
The real damage came from the bullpen. Gabe Speier got roughed up again, nothing obviously wrong but a rough stretch in spring and the World Baseball Classic. Yosver Zulueta couldn't record an out and got rocked before Michael Rucker came in to clean up the mess.
The Silver Lining Everyone Missed
Cal Raleigh and Randy Arozarena made nice. Arozarena delivered an apology and told the press about it. That's the kind of stuff that actually matters heading into a new season, way more than getting mangled by the Cubs in March.
Opening Day is almost here. This loss stays in Arizona.
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This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.