Guardians, Cubs Lineup for Game 1 of Doubleheader

Slade Cecconi and the Guardians host the Cubs in the first game of a makeup doubleheader at Progressive Field.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 2:24pm

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The Cleveland Guardians and Chicago Cubs will play the first game of a traditional doubleheader on Sunday, April 5, 2026 at Progressive Field. Guardians right-hander Slade Cecconi will take the mound against Cubs righty Edward Cabrera. The Guardians lineup features several key offensive contributors, including Jose Ramirez, Kyle Manzardo, and Bo Naylor, while the Cubs lineup has not yet been posted.

Why it matters

This doubleheader is a makeup game from an earlier postponement, giving both teams a chance to make up ground in the early part of the 2026 MLB season. The Guardians are looking to build on their 5-3 start, while the Cubs hope to improve their 3-4 record.

The details

The first game of the doubleheader is scheduled to start at 1:10 p.m. ET and will be televised on Guardians.TV, with radio coverage on WTAM 1100 and the Guardians Radio Network. The second game will begin 20-30 minutes after the conclusion of the first contest.

  • The doubleheader is scheduled for Sunday, April 5, 2026.
  • The first game will start at 1:10 p.m. ET.

The players

Slade Cecconi

The Guardians' starting pitcher for Game 1, looking to bounce back from an 0-1 start with a 12.46 ERA.

Edward Cabrera

The Cubs' starting pitcher for Game 1, coming off a strong 1-0 debut with a 0.00 ERA.

Jose Ramirez

The Guardians' star designated hitter and one of the team's top offensive threats.

Kyle Manzardo

The Guardians' first baseman, a key part of their lineup.

Bo Naylor

The Guardians' starting catcher, looking to build on a promising start to the season.

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What’s next

The Guardians and Cubs will play the second game of their doubleheader immediately following the conclusion of the first game.

The takeaway

This early-season matchup between the Guardians and Cubs provides an opportunity for both teams to gain ground in their respective divisions. The Guardians will look to their veteran lineup to power them to victory, while the Cubs hope their young pitching can keep them in the game.