Cubs 8, Diamondbacks 1: Dansby Swanson and Carson Kelly homer

The Cubs went deep twice in Thursday's win.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Chicago Cubs defeated the Arizona Diamondbacks 8-1 on Thursday, with Dansby Swanson and Carson Kelly hitting home runs for the Cubs. Cubs starter Colin Rea pitched well, allowing just one run over 5 innings, while the Cubs offense scored 8 runs on the day.

Why it matters

The win continues a strong spring training performance for the Cubs, who are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season. The home runs from Swanson and Kelly are also encouraging signs for the Cubs' offense heading into the 2026 regular season.

The details

The Cubs jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the first inning, with Nico Hoerner tripling in Michael Busch. Dansby Swanson then singled Hoerner home. Rea settled in after the first, retiring 8 of the next 9 batters he faced. Pavin Smith hit a solo home run for the Diamondbacks' only run. The Cubs extended their lead to 4-0 in the third when Swanson hit a two-run home run. The Cubs added 4 more runs late to win 8-1.

  • The game took place on Thursday, March 5, 2026 in Mesa, Arizona.
  • The Cubs scored 2 runs in the first inning.
  • Dansby Swanson hit a two-run home run in the third inning.
  • Carson Kelly hit a solo home run for the Cubs in the fifth inning.
  • The game had an attendance of 12,824 at Sloan Park.

The players

Dansby Swanson

The Cubs' shortstop who hit a two-run home run in the third inning.

Carson Kelly

The Cubs' catcher who hit a solo home run in the fifth inning.

Colin Rea

The Cubs' starting pitcher who allowed 1 run over 5 innings with 6 strikeouts.

Nico Hoerner

The Cubs' second baseman who tripled in the first inning to drive in a run.

Pavin Smith

The Diamondbacks' first baseman who hit a solo home run in the fourth inning.

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What’s next

The Cubs will play their first spring night game of 2026 on Friday against the Padres, with Ben Brown starting for the Cubs.

The takeaway

The Cubs' strong offensive performance, highlighted by home runs from Swanson and Kelly, as well as the solid outing from starter Colin Rea, are positive signs for the team as they look to bounce back in the 2026 season.