Guardians, Cubs Lineup for Game 2 Doubleheader

Cleveland hosts Chicago in second game after dropping opener 1-0

Apr. 5, 2026 at 8:25pm

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The Cleveland Guardians will try to even their Sunday doubleheader against the Chicago Cubs in the nightcap at Progressive Field. The Guardians lost the first game 1-0 and will send right-hander Parker Messick to the mound, while the Cubs counter with lefty Shota Imanaga.

Why it matters

The Guardians are looking to bounce back after a tough loss in the first game, while the Cubs aim to build on their early-season success. This matchup features two young, talented teams in the midst of the 2026 MLB season.

The details

In the second game, the Guardians will trot out a lineup featuring Steven Kwan, Angel Martinez, Jose Ramirez, David Fry, Chase DeLauter, Rhys Hoskin, Gabriel Arias, Austin Hedges, and Brayan Rocchio. The Cubs counter with Nico Hoerner, Alex Bregman, Ian Happ, Carson Kelly, Michael Busch, Dansby Swanson, Matt Shaw, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Dylan Carlson.

  • The doubleheader is taking place on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
  • First pitch for Game 2 is scheduled for 7:10 PM ET.

The players

Parker Messick

The Guardians' starting pitcher for Game 2, a right-hander with a 1-0 record and 0.00 ERA so far this season.

Shota Imanaga

The Cubs' starting pitcher for Game 2, a left-hander with a 0-1 record and 7.20 ERA to begin the year.

Steven Kwan

The Guardians' leadoff hitter and center fielder.

Nico Hoerner

The Cubs' starting second baseman and leadoff hitter.

Jose Ramirez

The Guardians' star third baseman and cleanup hitter.

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What’s next

The Guardians will look to even the series in Game 2 after dropping the opener. The winner of this doubleheader will take a 1-0 lead in the 4-game series between the two clubs.

The takeaway

This matchup between the Guardians and Cubs features two young, talented teams looking to establish themselves early in the 2026 MLB season. The nightcap should provide an exciting conclusion to their Sunday doubleheader.