With the 2025 MLB season concluded, the Cubs have announced their 2026 Cactus League schedule, featuring a home opener against the White Sox, a tilt with the Yankees, and an international exhibition.
MESA, AZ — As the Chicago Cubs look to build on their 92-win 2025 season, preparations for 2026 are already underway. The team has officially released its 2026 Spring Training schedule, which will feature over 30 games at Sloan Park and across the Cactus League.
The schedule kicks off on February 20, 2026, with the first game at Sloan Park in Mesa, where the Cubs will host their crosstown rivals, the Chicago White Sox.
Fans will have plenty of opportunities to see their favorite players like Ian Happ, Nico Hoerner, and Seiya Suzuki as they gear up for the season, while also getting a first look at the top prospects fighting for a spot on the Opening Day roster.
Here are the key dates and highlights from the 2026 Spring Training schedule.
Key Dates for 2026
- Feb. 20: Spring Opener vs. Chicago White Sox (at Sloan Park)
- Feb. 24: vs. San Diego Padres
- March 20: vs. Cincinnati Reds (Spring Breakout Game)
- March 21: MLB Spring Breakout Game vs. San Diego Padres
- March 22-23: Split-Squad Games vs. New York Yankees
Schedule Highlights
In addition to marquee matchups against the White Sox and a high-profile split-squad series against the New York Yankees (March 22-23), the Cubs will also face a variety of Cactus League and interleague opponents.
The team is scheduled to travel to other venues to face the Seattle Mariners, Cleveland Guardians, and Los Angeles Angels. They will also have key NL-rivalry matchups against the St. Louis Cardinals, San Francisco Giants, and Milwaukee Brewers.
The schedule also features several special events. The MLB Spring Breakout initiative will see the Cubs face the San Diego Padres on March 21. In a unique international matchup, the Cubs will also play Team Italy in an exhibition game, offering players and fans a different style of competition ahead of the regular season.
With a solid schedule in place, the Cubs’ training camp will be the first step toward a strong 2026 season.
