Cubs Lineup Features Busch, Shaw, and Imanaga

Cactus League game with no TV coverage has some interesting names in the lineup

Feb. 24, 2026 at 5:53pm

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The Chicago Cubs are back in action on Tuesday for another Cactus League game, this time at home against the San Diego Padres. The lineup features some notable names, including Michael Busch leading off, Matt Shaw starting at third base, and Shōta Imanaga on the mound. However, there will be no TV coverage of the game, only SD Audio from the Padres' broadcast.

Why it matters

This early spring training game provides an opportunity for the Cubs to evaluate some of their younger and lesser-known players as they prepare for the upcoming season. The lack of TV coverage means fans will have to rely on radio and social media updates to follow the action.

The details

Michael Busch is making his spring debut, leading off and playing first base. Matt Shaw is getting a start at third base, giving him reps at three different positions so far. Shōta Imanaga, who is headed back to Japan to prepare for the World Baseball Classic, will be making his first and likely only appearance before that. The Padres are starting lefty Marco Gonzales, a former first-round pick who has dealt with injuries throughout his career.

  • The game is scheduled for a 2:05pm CT first pitch on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.

The players

Michael Busch

A top prospect in the Cubs' system, Busch is making his spring debut leading off and playing first base.

Matt Shaw

Young infielder getting a start at third base, his third different position so far this spring.

Shōta Imanaga

Cubs pitcher who is headed back to Japan to prepare for the World Baseball Classic, making his first and likely only spring appearance.

Marco Gonzales

Veteran left-hander for the Padres who has dealt with injuries throughout his career, including shoulder, elbow, and forearm issues.

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What they’re saying

“Sho-time in Mesa.”

— Chicago Cubs

What’s next

The Cubs will continue their Cactus League schedule, with their next game on Wednesday, February 25th against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The takeaway

This early spring training game provides the Cubs an opportunity to evaluate some of their younger and lesser-known players as they prepare for the upcoming season, despite the lack of TV coverage limiting fans' ability to follow the action.