CUBS 3, Royals 2 (7)
GETTING IN SHAPE
Right-hander Adbert Alzolay got his first start of the spring against the Royals on Tuesday, tossing one inning with a strikeout and a hit by pitch. Alzolay is in the mix to be the Cubs’ fifth starter.
“It was according to plan just to go one inning today. I just went in there and did my job. That’s it,” Alzolay said. “I just threw two sliders and one changeup today, because my main focus was working on my fastball command. But I’m happy where they’re at right now.”
BULKING UP
Second baseman Nico Hoerner hit the weights over the offseason, and there is a notable difference in his physique. Hoerner showed off the new look and batting stance, going 2-for-3 with a double against the Royals. Hoerner is vying for the Cubs’ second-base job with David Bote this spring.
“I was lucky to go to work out at Wrigley with our strength coach, Shane Wallen,” Hoerner said. “I guess the theme of the whole offseason for me it’s just kind of continuing to really test all of the Cubs resources, because we’re so lucky with what we have available to us. ... Nutrition, strength, the hitting side. I’m just really thankful for the people that make that work for us because the resources are so good.”
SCORING IN BUNCHES
The Cubs did most of their damage in the fourth inning. Center fielder Rafael Ortega lined a bases-clearing triple into the right-center field gap to give the Cubs a 3-0 lead.
ON DECK
Mariners at Cubs, 2:10 pm. Wednesday, Mesa. ESPN. Zach Davies vs. James Paxton.
