Rangers Defeat Cubs 8-3 in Spring Training Matchup

Cade Horton struggles on the mound as Texas hits three home runs

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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In a spring training game between the Chicago Cubs and Texas Rangers, the Rangers came out on top with an 8-3 victory. Cubs starter Cade Horton had a tough outing, giving up six runs including three home runs over 3.2 innings pitched. The Rangers jumped out to an early lead with a three-run homer by Corey Seager in the 1st inning and never looked back, adding solo shots by Josh Smith and Ezequiel Duran as well. The Cubs offense was held in check for most of the game before scoring two runs in the 6th inning, but it wasn't enough to overcome the early deficit.

Why it matters

This game provided an opportunity for both teams to evaluate their rosters and get players valuable spring training experience ahead of the upcoming MLB season. While the final score was lopsided, it's important to remember that spring training results don't always translate to the regular season. The Cubs will look to bounce back in their next exhibition game as they continue to prepare their young pitching staff.

The details

Rangers shortstop Corey Seager hit a three-run home run in the 1st inning to give Texas an early 3-0 lead. Josh Smith and Ezequiel Duran added solo homers later in the game to extend the Rangers' advantage. Cubs starter Cade Horton struggled, allowing six runs on the three home runs over 3.2 innings pitched. The Cubs offense was held in check for most of the game before Matt Shaw hit a solo homer and Chas McCormick drove in a run with a sacrifice fly in the 6th inning.

  • The game took place on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
  • Corey Seager hit his three-run homer in the bottom of the 1st inning.
  • Josh Smith hit his solo shot in the bottom of the 2nd inning.
  • Ezequiel Duran launched a two-run homer in the bottom of the 4th inning.

The players

Cade Horton

The Cubs' starting pitcher, who struggled in his outing, allowing six runs over 3.2 innings.

Corey Seager

The Rangers' shortstop, who hit a three-run home run in the 1st inning to give Texas an early lead.

Matt Shaw

The Cubs' outfielder, who hit a solo home run in the 6th inning to get Chicago on the board.

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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 (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The Cubs will look to bounce back when they host the Royals at Sloan Park on Wednesday afternoon.

The takeaway

While the final score was lopsided, this spring training game provided valuable experience for both teams as they prepare their rosters for the upcoming MLB season. The Cubs will look to learn from this outing and continue to develop their young pitching staff.