5 key takeways from a Chicago Cubs win over Colorado where they scored 24 runs

The Chicago Cubs scored 24 runs on March 24. - [Ron Cogswell/Flickr]
The Chicago Cubs scored 24 runs on March 24. - [Ron Cogswell/Flickr]

The Cubs offense exploded on Sunday (March 24) against the Padres in their latest victory.

reviewed by Ryan C. Devault
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1

Minor leaguers went off

The Cubs scored 24 runs, despite the fact that Anthony Rizzo, Kris Bryant, Javier Baez, Willson Contreras, and most of the Opening Day regulars sat out. Addison Russell was the only Cubs starter to play on Sunday and he won't be starting for the first 40 games of the season.

2

David Bote has done all he can

While there are still some doubters of David Bote, he's had the kind of spring that should warrant him getting at-bats come the regular season. He went 4-for-5 on Sunday, hitting a double, driving in a run, and scoring three times. He's hitting .439 as the spring winds down.

3

Newest Cub: So far, so good

Tim Collins was acquired earlier Sunday as Chicago DFA'd Brian Duensing. It's hard to know what to make of Collins, but in his first game as a Southsider, he pitched a scoreless inning and struck out one batter.

4

Zagunis wants a spot on the 25 man roster

Outfielder Mark Zagunis is the most likely winner of the Ian Happ situation. With Happ getting sent down, Zagunis looks to be given a shot at the bigs to open the year. As if he was making his final argument, he went 2-for-3 in the leadoff spot, while also walking twice and scoring three runs. He's hitting .357 this spring.

5

Pitching is still quite worrisome

While the major league position players mostly took the day off, there were two Cubs pitchers who will be on the 25-man roster who appeared on Sunday. Neither did very well. Mike Montgomery started the game, lasted just two innings, and allowed three runs on three hits and two walks. Brad Brach came into the game later and showed why his reduced velocity has some fans concerned. Lasting just 2/3 of an inning, he allowed two hits, three runs, and two walks.

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