Opening day at Wrigley Field is a renowned event, marked by the joyous reunion of Cubs fans ready to support their team after a long winter. This year, as the Cubs prepare to tackle a challenging schedule, the spotlight shines on new closer Ryan Pressly. With a shaky start, fans are left debating his potential and comparing his performance to past closers like Mitch Williams. Concerns also linger over the overall health of the bullpen, which carries a concerning 5.61 ERA. Amid these worries, the arrival of Kyle Tucker adds pressure on the team to secure a postseason return after four years of disappointment.

The Cubs are faced with a grueling early schedule, facing powerhouse teams like the Dodgers and Padres, raising the stakes for manager Craig Counsell and his crew. Despite early-season jitters, the organization remains hopeful, emphasizing the importance of these early games in understanding their capabilities and potential for success. A promising start could help ease fan anxieties, but the pressure to perform remains high.