Spring training is a time of contradictory emotions, as players and coaches grapple with the excitement of a new season amidst the monotony of drills. As teams like the Chicago Cubs and White Sox wrap up their training in Arizona, both exhibit optimism despite differing expectations. Veteran pitcher Martín Pérez asserts the White Sox possess young talent and passion, believing this squad can surprise critics. Cubs manager Craig Counsell finds excitement in the routine of the upcoming season, while players like Justin Steele and newcomer Shota Imanaga prepare for the season with fresh looks. Opening day is a monumental event, particularly for players like Sean Burke, who cherishes the rarity of starting on such a significant day.

Delving into this year's top MLB prospects, a fresh approach highlights the ten players expected to significantly impact fantasy teams in the coming season. Primarily focusing on those eligible for Rookie of the Year, the list includes notable talents like Dylan Crews, an outfielder for the Washington Nationals, whose comprehensive skill set suggests he’ll be a valuable addition across most fantasy formats.

Also featured is Jasson Dominguez from the New York Yankees, whose impressive ceiling and potential for a 30/30 season make him a must-watch. The evaluation continues with Kristian Campbell, expected to shine for the Boston Red Sox, alongside other notable names like Roman Anthony, Cam Smith, and Jacob Wilson, who promise to make waves in the MLB and fantasy leagues alike.

The Chicago Cubs are ramping up for the start of the 2025 season after an intense spring training, which included a trip to Japan for opening games. Left fielder Ian Happ noted the challenge of balancing meaningful games with spring training, emphasizing the importance of staying sharp. Key player Nico Hoerner, recovering from surgery, is expected to join the roster as decisions loom for the pitching staff.

Manager Craig Counsell confirmed Shota Imanaga will start Game 3 of the Diamondbacks series, while Ben Brown and Colin Rea vie for the fifth starter spot after both had mixed results in the Cactus League. Despite underwhelming offensive stats in the Tokyo series, the Cubs believe their lineup is significantly improved with new talents like Kyle Tucker. As they face a tough schedule in April, Cubs players are focused on getting off to a strong start as they prepare for their domestic opener.

The Chicago Cubs are currently grappling with the lingering effects of their Tokyo trip, a whirlwind experience that has left many players feeling groggy and sleep-deprived. Veteran reliever Ryan Brasier noted he couldn't shake the jet lag, while shortstop Dansby Swanson fought through illness to get back into the lineup. Despite a tough outing from starter Justin Steele in his season debut against the Dodgers, he's been named the opening-day starter against the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Cubs are eager to return to normalcy after playing in front of a crowd that largely favored Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers, acknowledging the star's overwhelming popularity in Japan. Manager Craig Counsell expressed the team's willingness to return to Japan for another series, citing the emotional toll the trip took, especially on Japanese players like Seiya Suzuki and Shōta Imanaga, who were celebrated at home. As they prepare for the season opener, the Cubs aim to rid themselves of the Tokyo fatigue and focus on their upcoming games.