Cubs' Newcomer Cabrera Dazzles in Cactus League Debut

27-year-old right-hander flashes electric stuff in perfect outing against Guardians

Feb. 28, 2026 at 12:23am

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Edward Cabrera, the Chicago Cubs' new 27-year-old right-handed pitcher, made a strong first impression in his Cactus League debut, tossing two perfect innings and striking out three batters against the Cleveland Guardians. Cabrera, who was acquired by the Cubs in the offseason, showcased the electric stuff that made him a coveted addition, focusing on staying in the strike zone with his diverse pitch mix.

Why it matters

Cabrera's performance highlights the Cubs' efforts to bolster their starting rotation with talented young arms. As the team looks to return to contention, Cabrera's ability to harness his elite pitch characteristics and reduce his walk rate will be crucial to his success and the Cubs' overall pitching depth.

The details

Cabrera threw 31 pitches in his two perfect innings, relying heavily on his four-seam fastball, which he knows he must better locate to be an effective part of his arsenal. The Cubs are trying to make Cabrera's transition to the new organization as smooth as possible, allowing him to maintain his usual spring training routine from his time with the Miami Marlins.

  • Cabrera made his Cactus League debut on Friday, February 27, 2026.

The players

Edward Cabrera

A 27-year-old right-handed pitcher who was acquired by the Chicago Cubs in the offseason after spending five seasons with the Miami Marlins.

Craig Counsell

The manager of the Chicago Cubs, who discussed the team's approach to integrating Cabrera into the rotation.

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What they’re saying

“Good, very good”

— Edward Cabrera (Chicago Tribune)

“I don't think there's a big change that we think is needs to happen here, that's not what the trade was about, like a big (development opportunity) here, don't think that's necessarily what this was about. We just think this is a talented pitcher coming into the right part of his career. And the health part of this is a real thing that we have to get right to the best of our ability, and then there's some stuff that we can't control. That's how he's going to be a really good pitcher.”

— Craig Counsell, Manager (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

The Cubs will continue to monitor Cabrera's progress throughout spring training as he looks to solidify his spot in the team's starting rotation for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

Cabrera's dominant Cactus League debut showcases the Cubs' efforts to build a deep and talented starting rotation, with the 27-year-old right-hander's electric stuff and potential serving as a valuable addition to the team's pitching staff as they aim to return to contention.