Thu Mar 27 12:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Diamondbacks and Cubs Clash in Season Opener: Gallen vs. Steele in High-Stakes Matchup

**Phoenix, AZ** – The Arizona Diamondbacks and Chicago Cubs kick off their 2025 seasons Thursday at Chase Field in a highly anticipated matchup. Both teams enter with postseason aspirations, fueled by significant offseason moves and the promise of star players.

The Diamondbacks, looking to overcome a disappointing 2024 season that ended in a three-team tiebreaker, will rely on newly signed ace Corbin Burnes and their established core. However, it’s right-hander Zac Gallen who gets the Opening Day nod, making his third consecutive start for the team. Manager Torey Lovullo’s starting lineup is yet to be announced, but is expected to feature a dynamic mix depending on the opposing pitcher. The bullpen will be a committee approach, with A.J. Puk and Justin Martinez vying for closing opportunities. The team suffered a late setback with the season-ending injury to Jordan Montgomery.

The Cubs, recovering from a 0-2 series loss to the Dodgers in Tokyo, boast a revamped roster featuring All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker, acquired in a blockbuster trade. Manager Craig Counsell will manage the lineup’s top spots with Tucker and Seiya Suzuki. Justin Steele, despite a rough outing in Tokyo, takes the mound for the Cubs. The bullpen, bolstered by the addition of Ryan Pressly, will look to provide strong late-inning support. Injuries to Javier Assad and Tyson Miller thin the pitching depth chart.

**Game Details:**

* **Time:** 7:10 p.m. MST / 9:10 p.m. CT
* **TV:** Marquee Sports Network (Cubs), DBACKS.TV (Diamondbacks) – check local listings.
* **Radio:** 670 AM The Score and WRTO 1200 (Cubs), Arizona Sports 98.7 FM and Latino Mix 100.3 (Diamondbacks)

The game promises a compelling clash between two strong teams aiming for a successful 2025 season. While both lineups have some hot and cold hitters in Spring Training, the pitching matchups between Gallen and Steele will be key in determining the winner of this season-opening battle. Fans can also expect a pre-game ceremony featuring Arizona State University’s football coach and players.

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