Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (3/6/25): Royals 8, Cubs 3 – Cubs Fall Short in Rare Night Matchup

The Chicago Cubs played their only night game of spring training, welcoming the Royals to Sloan Park on Thursday evening. The game was a pitcher’s duel through the first three innings before Kansas City hitters started to produce, eventually putting together a lopsided victory.

Ben Brown got the start Thursday night after Chicago’s scheduled starter, Justin Steele, was a late scratch with flu-like symptoms. Brown was sharp early, tossing three shutout innings, but he was matched by Royals starter Cole Ragans. The game was scoreless into the 4th inning.

Brown came back out for that frame. The Royals got to him with three consecutive doubles to put the road team on top 3-0. Pete Crow-Armstrong got one of those runs back in the 5th inning when he stole third base and scored on a wild pitch.

The Royals extended their advantage in the 7th when Jac Caglianone hit a two-run homer off Ethan Roberts. The visitors would add three more in the next frame to build a comfortable 8-1 lead. Gage Workman blasted a homer in the Cubs’ final at-bat to cut the deficit to 8-3, and that would be the final score. (Box score)

Key Moment

Brown seemed to lose a little steam in his final inning. The Royals were able to take advantage and grab the lead.

Why the Cubs Lost

The offense couldn’t get anything going on a chilly, blustery night in Mesa.

Stats That Matter

• Brown did a nice job on short notice, especially his first three innings: 3.2 IP, 3 R, 4 H, 5 K, and 0 BB.
• PCA had two more hits as he continues his excellent spring.
• Kyle Tucker is still hitless in the Cactus League, but he will be fine.

Bottom Line

Brown will be an important part of the pitching staff this year no matter what role he fills, so it’s good to see him throwing effectively.

Matt Shaw has been playing every day lately, but it’s not clear if he’ll get enough playing time before the trip to Japan to be in the starting lineup in the opener. It would be fun if he is able to make it.

On Deck

The Cubs head to Camelback Ranch for a matchup against the White Sox Friday at 2:05pm CT. Colin Rea gets the start in a game available on Chicago Sports Network.