### Chicago Cubs Face Opening Day Challenges with Key Injuries to Starters The Chicago Cubs are grappling with significant injury concerns as they prepare for their opening series against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Japan on March 18. The team will be without second baseman Nico Hoerner, who is recovering from flexor tendon surgery, and the status of rookie third baseman Matt Shaw remains uncertain after he recently made his Cactus League debut following an oblique injury. These developments have raised questions about the Cubs' lineup and overall readiness for the season's start, particularly given the high-profile nature of the Tokyo series. ### Injury Impact on Cubs' Opening Day Roster 1. **Nico Hoerner's Absence**: - Hoerner will not travel to Japan as he continues his rehabilitation from surgery performed in October 2024. He is expected to return for the domestic opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks on March 27 [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/chicago_cubs_dont_want_to_punish_but_have_major_concern_for_infielder_before_japan/s1_17081_41845522]. 2. **Matt Shaw's Uncertain Status**: - Shaw, a highly regarded prospect, made his Cactus League debut but went 0-for-3 in his first game back. His participation in the Tokyo series is doubtful, as manager Craig Counsell has not confirmed his travel plans [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/chicago_cubs_hint_at_another_starter_sitting_opening_day_after_sundays_debut/s1_17081_41844182]. 3. **Criticism of the Lineup**: - The Cubs' decision to leave key players behind has drawn criticism, with some commentators labeling the expected lineup for the Tokyo series as a "joke." Concerns have been raised about the implications of these absences on the team's performance throughout the season [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/chicago_cubs_slammed_for_joke_opening_day_lineup_in_japan/s1_17081_41835510]. ### Supporting Evidence of Injury Concerns - **Nico Hoerner's Performance History**: - In 2024, Hoerner played 151 games, achieving a batting average of .273 with 7 home runs and 31 stolen bases, showcasing his importance to the team [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/chicago_cubs_lose_starter_for_opening_day_report/s1_17081_41827732]. - **Matt Shaw's Injury Timeline**: - Shaw has been dealing with an oblique injury since early February, and while he is expected to play soon, his readiness for the Tokyo series is still in question [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/chicago_cubs_rookie_matt_shaws_injury_news_takes_a_turn/s1_17081_41828731]. ### Conclusion: Cubs' Opening Day Outlook In summary, the Chicago Cubs are facing a challenging start to the 2025 season with the absence of key players due to injuries. 1. **Nico Hoerner's recovery** is a priority, with hopes for his return by the domestic opener. 2. **Matt Shaw's uncertain status** raises concerns about the team's depth at third base. 3. **Criticism of the lineup** suggests that these decisions could have long-term implications for the Cubs' performance. The Cubs will need to navigate these challenges carefully as they prepare for their international series and the subsequent domestic season [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6165061/2025/02/27/chicago-cubs-nico-hoerner-tokyo-series].