Thu Feb 20 02:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Local Sports Roundup: Cubs Spring Training, Bulls Injury Report, and More

**Chicago, IL – February 20, 2025** – A busy day in Chicago sports saw updates across multiple teams. The Chicago Cubs begin their Spring Training tomorrow, but fans shouldn’t expect to see many regulars in the opening game. Cody Poteet will start on the mound, with pitching prospects Jack Neely and Daniel Palencia also slated to appear. Meanwhile, the Cubs’ offseason additions of veterans Ryan Pressly, Caleb Thielbar, Ryan Brasier, and Colin Rea have bolstered their bullpen. The team also signed free agent Justin Turner to a one-year deal. Further, the Cubs are optimistic about hosting the 2027 MLB All-Star Game at Wrigley Field, and will bring a five-player taxi squad to Japan for their exhibition games.

The Chicago Bulls announced that Patrick Williams is out due to right quad soreness. Additionally, the team has waived Adama Sanogo. Positive news came from Lonzo Ball addressing reporters after signing a contract extension. Rookie Matas Buzelis’ participation in the NBA All-Star weekend generated excitement.

In other news, the Chicago Bears are awaiting the official release of Ben Johnson’s coaching staff. The team’s potential pursuit of free agent Trey Smith appears to be a possibility following a report that the Kansas City Chiefs are unlikely to franchise tag him. The Bears’ improved salary cap situation, combined with the hiring of Ben Johnson as head coach, has many optimistic about the team’s future.

Finally, the Chicago Blackhawks are back from their break and preparing for their upcoming game. There have been discussions surrounding a potential trade for Seth Jones. The 4 Nations Face-Off saw strong viewership for the USA vs. Canada game. Blackhawks prospect Nick Lardis is on pace for a remarkable goal-scoring season in the OHL.

Elsewhere, Liga MX will see Cruz Azul and Club Santos Laguna face off on Wednesday, while college basketball features games involving Northern Arizona, Georgia State, Towson, Charleston (SC), Western Kentucky, Troy, Middle Tennessee, North Carolina A&T, Little Rock, and Sacramento State. MLB teams’ World Series odds are also noted. This information has been compiled from various sources, including DataSkrive, a sports content provider leveraging human expertise, machine learning, and content libraries to create personalized sports content.

Read More