Cubs' 'Unfinished Business' Fuels 2026 Season: Spring Training Insights & World Series Dreams

Driven by a powerful sentiment, the Chicago Cubs aim to capitalize on their near-miss in the 2025 playoffs and make a deep postseason run.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:55am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in bold, vibrant colors that breaks down a Cubs baseball game into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes, conveying the team's focused determination and high-stakes pursuit of a World Series championship.The Cubs' renewed determination to capture an elusive World Series title is reflected in a cubist-inspired illustration that captures the team's dynamic energy and high-stakes pursuit.Mesa Today

The Chicago Cubs are gearing up for an intense spring training, driven by a powerful sentiment of 'unfinished business'. After breaking a four-year playoff drought in 2025 and pushing the Brewers to a decisive Game 5 in the NL Division Series, the team is determined to take the next step and reach the World Series. With key additions like veteran third baseman Alex Bregman and starting pitcher Edward Cabrera, the Cubs are poised to make a strong run in the 2026 season.

Why it matters

The Cubs' near-miss in the 2025 playoffs has fueled a renewed hunger and focus within the team. After years of rebuilding, the organization is now ready to compete at the highest level, and their performance this spring training could set the tone for a potential World Series run. The team's blend of returning players and new additions with playoff experience creates an environment where winning is the expectation, not just a hope.

The details

The usual spring training buzz has been replaced by a focused determination to get to work. The Cubs have made some significant moves, adding veteran third baseman Alex Bregman and starting pitcher Edward Cabrera, boosting their chances and raising expectations. PECOTA Projections even predict a division win for the Cubs, but the Brewers' history of surpassing preseason expectations adds an element of uncertainty. Manager Craig Counsell embraces these expectations, acknowledging the hard work behind building a roster that demands attention. Left-hander Matthew Boyd echoes the sentiment, aiming for nothing less than a World Series win.

  • The Chicago Cubs' 2025 season ended on a high note, breaking a four-year playoff drought and pushing the Brewers to a decisive Game 5 in the NL Division Series.
  • The Cubs are gathering in Mesa, Arizona, for the 2026 spring training season.

The players

Jameson Taillon

A Cubs pitcher who observes a noticeable shift in the team's atmosphere, with a focused determination to get to work.

Jed Hoyer

The president of baseball operations for the Chicago Cubs, who believes the team's near-miss in the 2025 playoffs has fueled a hunger that could make this spring training exceptional.

Alex Bregman

A veteran third baseman who the Cubs have added to their roster, boosting their chances and raising expectations.

Edward Cabrera

A starting pitcher who the Cubs have added to their roster, boosting their chances and raising expectations.

Craig Counsell

The manager of the Chicago Cubs, who embraces the high expectations for the team and acknowledges the hard work behind building a roster that demands attention.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.