![Roger Bossard waters the infield at White So spring training...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Roger Bossard waters the infield at White So spring training on Feb. 24, 2015.
![Cubs manager Lou Piniella and White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs manager Lou Piniella and White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen wish each other well before a spring training game at HoHoKam Park on March 6, 2010.
![As part of a Cubs Park Sunday promotion, kids in...]()
Chris Walker / Chicago Tribune
As part of a Cubs Park Sunday promotion, kids in the stand are allow on the field to run the bases after the game, shown here March 2, 2014.
![The Cubs trot around their flooded playing field during spring...]()
Chicago Tribune historical photo
The Cubs trot around their flooded playing field during spring training at French Lick, Ind., in March 1945. Left to right are: Coach Milton Stock, Coach Roy Johnson, John Ostrowski and Frank Secory.
![Cubs players get some running in to stay warm before...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs players get some running in to stay warm before a game against the Athletics at HoHoKam Park in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 27, 2011.
![Jake Arrieta's glove on Feb. 20, 2015, as spring training...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Jake Arrieta's glove on Feb. 20, 2015, as spring training begins for the Cubs. Arrieta won the 2015 NL Cy Young Award.
![Cubs general manager Carter Hawkins talks on the phone during...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs general manager Carter Hawkins talks on the phone during during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Mark Buehrle listens to the White Sox spring training game...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
Mark Buehrle listens to the White Sox spring training game on the audio feed on February 27, 2008.
![Cubs minor-league hitting coach Rachel Folden watches during a minor-league...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs minor-league hitting coach Rachel Folden watches during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs outfielder Jorge Soler laughs after falling during a spring...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs outfielder Jorge Soler laughs after falling during a spring training workout on Feb. 25, 2015.
![An optimistic fan wears an World Series champions shirt at...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
An optimistic fan wears an World Series champions shirt at Cubs spring training on Feb. 25, 2015.
![Jason Heyward watches players hit during Cubs spring training at...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Jason Heyward watches players hit during Cubs spring training at Sloan Park on Feb. 23, 2021.
![Cubs prospect John Hicks, left, laughs while talking with fellow...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs prospect John Hicks, left, laughs while talking with fellow catcher Tyler Payne during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![White Sox manager Robin Ventura and Cubs manager Dale Sveum...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
White Sox manager Robin Ventura and Cubs manager Dale Sveum before a Cactus League spring training game at Camelback Ranch on March 9, 2012.
![Cubs prospect Reginald Preciado runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Reginald Preciado runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Jason Heyward sits on the bench after warming up during...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Jason Heyward sits on the bench after warming up during the first day of spring training, Feb. 19, 2016.
![Fans sit socially distant while watching Anthony Rizzo bat during...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Fans sit socially distant while watching Anthony Rizzo bat during the fifth inning of a spring training game against the Padres at the Peoria Sports Complex on March 1, 2021.
![Cubs manager Dusty Baker and Ron Santo sitting on a...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Cubs manager Dusty Baker and Ron Santo sitting on a golf cart shielded from the light rain while pitchers and catchers held a workout on Feb. 19, 2005.
![Cubs prospect Ismael Mena runs drills during during a minor-league...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Ismael Mena runs drills during during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Nick Powell has a Cubs tattoo sporting the dimensions of...]()
Chris Walker / Chicago Tribune
Nick Powell has a Cubs tattoo sporting the dimensions of Wrigley Field on March 2, 2014.
![Cubs radio partners Keith Moreland and Pat Hughes before the...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs radio partners Keith Moreland and Pat Hughes before the spring training opener in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 27, 2011.
![Cubs strength and conditioning coach Tim Buss drives past players...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cubs strength and conditioning coach Tim Buss drives past players in a Ferrari sports car during spring training at the Under Armour Performance on Feb. 21, 2017, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Jordan Guerrero blows bubbles in the White Sox dugout at...]()
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
Jordan Guerrero blows bubbles in the White Sox dugout at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 26, 2018.
![Cubs pitchers throw on Feb. 12, 2019 as they report...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs pitchers throw on Feb. 12, 2019 as they report to spring training in Mesa, Ariz.
![Willie Harris licks a baseball during workouts at the White...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Willie Harris licks a baseball during workouts at the White Sox spring training facility in Tucson, Ariz., on February 22, 2005.
![Manager Tony La Russa walks on a practice field during...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Manager Tony La Russa walks on a practice field during White Sox spring training at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 24, 2021.
![Cubs manager Joe Maddon addresses his team at the start...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs manager Joe Maddon addresses his team at the start of practice on Feb. 25, 2015.
![White Sox pitchers Jeff Samardzija and John Danks get a...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
White Sox pitchers Jeff Samardzija and John Danks get a ride in the rain on Feb. 23, 2015.
![Cubs prospect James Triantos performs drills during minicamp Monday, Feb....]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect James Triantos performs drills during minicamp Monday, Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs manager Rick Renteria has a bone to pick with...]()
Chris Walker / Chicago Tribune
Cubs manager Rick Renteria has a bone to pick with umpire Marcus Patillo in the fifth inning of a spring training loss on March 6, 2014.
![Dr. Tracy Williams works with Miguel Negron during vision tests...]()
Chris Richards / Chicago Tribune
Dr. Tracy Williams works with Miguel Negron during vision tests held in the White Sox clubhouse on Feb. 21, 2008.
![White Sox infielder Tyler Saladino hugs teammate Yolmer Sanchez during...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
White Sox infielder Tyler Saladino hugs teammate Yolmer Sanchez during spring training at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 17, 2017.
![Gloves sit on a table while players practice during Cubs...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Gloves sit on a table while players practice during Cubs spring training at Sloan Park on Feb. 18, 2020.
![Cubs manager Lou Piniella at Fitch Park on March 2,...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs manager Lou Piniella at Fitch Park on March 2, 2010.
![Fans wait for could balls that might leave the Cubs...]()
Chris Walker / Chicago Tribune
Fans wait for could balls that might leave the Cubs practice field on March 4, 2014, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs pitching prospect Daniel Palencia warms up during a minor-league...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Daniel Palencia warms up during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![White Sox Jayden Franco, of Glendale, Ariz., holds a large...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
White Sox Jayden Franco, of Glendale, Ariz., holds a large baseball waiting for players to sign it before a game against the Mariners in a Cactus League game at Camelback Ranch on March 7, 2015.
![White Sox pitching coordinator Richard Dotson watches players stretch during...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
White Sox pitching coordinator Richard Dotson watches players stretch during spring training at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 15, 2017.
![White Sox pitching coach Don Cooper watches practice on Feb....]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
White Sox pitching coach Don Cooper watches practice on Feb. 20, 2015.
![Kris Bryant fields ground balls during Cubs spring training at...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant fields ground balls during Cubs spring training at Sloan Park on Feb. 25, 2021.
![Bill Veeck takes a smoke break while watching his White...]()
Ed Wagner Jr. / Chicago Tribune
Bill Veeck takes a smoke break while watching his White Sox practice at spring training in Sarasota, Florida, in March 1977.
![Cubs pitching prospect Burl Carraway, front, warms up with teammates...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Burl Carraway, front, warms up with teammates during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Bradlee Beesley runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Bradlee Beesley runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Jose Abreu batts during White Sox spring training on Feb....]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Jose Abreu batts during White Sox spring training on Feb. 23, 2017 in Glendale, Ariz.
![The mainstays of the 1933 Cub pitching staff -- Pat...]()
Chicago Tribune / Chicago Tribune
The mainstays of the 1933 Cub pitching staff -- Pat Malone, Guy Bush, Lon Warneke and Charlie Root -- strike a pose in spring training 1933.
![Cubs prospect Cristian Hernandez runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Cristian Hernandez runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![First baseman Adam LaRoche walks back into the clubhouse with...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
First baseman Adam LaRoche walks back into the clubhouse with his son Drake, 13, after White Sox photo day on Feb. 28, 2015.
![White Sox outfielder Avisail Garcia throws his glove at a...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
White Sox outfielder Avisail Garcia throws his glove at a fly ball during batting practice on Feb. 21, 2015.
![Cubs manager Don Zimmer shares a laugh with third baseman...]()
STEVE GREEN / Chicago Tribune
Cubs manager Don Zimmer shares a laugh with third baseman Luis Salazar during a workout on Feb. 28, 1991, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs players stretch during a spring training practice at Fitch...]()
Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
Cubs players stretch during a spring training practice at Fitch Park in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 18, 2013.
![The Cubs' Ron Santo worked up a sweat at spring...]()
Chicago Tribune historical photo
The Cubs' Ron Santo worked up a sweat at spring training in Arizona in 1968.
![Tommy La Stella warms on the field before practice during...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Tommy La Stella warms on the field before practice during Cubs spring training at Sloan Park on Feb. 17, 2018.
![White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, left, and Dodgers owner and...]()
Paul Connors / Associated Press
White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, left, and Dodgers owner and chairman Frank McCourt chat as they look over their baseball teams' shared spring training facility on Jan. 15, 2009. The park, called Camelback Ranch, will seat 10,000 with room for another 3,000 on the lawn area and will open in March.
![White Sox catcher Adrian Nieto in the dugout before a...]()
Chris Walker / Chicago Tribune
White Sox catcher Adrian Nieto in the dugout before a spring training game against the Royals on March 3, 2014.
![Ben Zobrist leaves the batting cages during Cubs spring training...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist leaves the batting cages during Cubs spring training at Sloan Park on Feb. 18, 2018.
![Kris Bryant rests against Anthony Rizzo after practice during Cubs...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant rests against Anthony Rizzo after practice during Cubs spring training at Sloan Park on Feb. 20, 2018.
![Cubs prospect Christian Franklin runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Christian Franklin runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Kris Bryant signs autographs after the first day of spring...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant signs autographs after the first day of spring training, Feb. 19, 2016.
![White Sox general manager Rick Hahn watches pitcher Michael Kopech...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
White Sox general manager Rick Hahn watches pitcher Michael Kopech throw during spring training at Camelback Ranch pm Feb. 15, 2017.
![The Cubs' Javier Baez signs autographs before the first inning...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
The Cubs' Javier Baez signs autographs before the first inning of an exhibition game against the Indians on Feb. 26, 2017 in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs manager Joe Maddon watches batting practice on Feb. 25,...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs manager Joe Maddon watches batting practice on Feb. 25, 2015.
![Anthony Rizzo and Jeff Samardzija have a moment together during...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Anthony Rizzo and Jeff Samardzija have a moment together during spring training at HoHoKam Park in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 22, 2013.
![Cubs prospect Owen Caissie runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Owen Caissie runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Yohendrick Pinango runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Yohendrick Pinango runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Cristian Hernandez runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Cristian Hernandez runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs pitching prospect Caleb Kilian stretches out during a minor-league...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Caleb Kilian stretches out during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Mesa resident Michelle Moyer sings the national anthem during Opening...]()
Chris Walker / Chicago Tribune
Mesa resident Michelle Moyer sings the national anthem during Opening Day ceremonies on Feb. 27, 2014, at the new Cubs training facility stadium.
![White Sox's Jordan Danks signs an autograph on Feb. 19,...]()
Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
White Sox's Jordan Danks signs an autograph on Feb. 19, 2013, in Glendale, Ariz.
![White Sox players run during a workout, Feb. 19, 2016.]()
Morry Gash / AP
White Sox players run during a workout, Feb. 19, 2016.
![Cubs Hall of Famer Billy Williams watches a spring training...]()
Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
Cubs Hall of Famer Billy Williams watches a spring training practice on Feb. 21, 2013.
![Cubs prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Zach Putnam hops a fence during spring training on Saturday, Feb....]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Zach Putnam hops a fence during spring training on Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016, in Glendale, Ariz.
![Pitchers throw on the first day of full squad workouts...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Pitchers throw on the first day of full squad workouts during Cubs spring training at Sloan Park on Feb. 22, 2021.
![Jorge Soler runs the bases on Feb. 27, 2015, at...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Jorge Soler runs the bases on Feb. 27, 2015, at Cubs spring training in Mesa, Ariz.
![Corey Patterson shares centerfield with his new manager Dusty Baker...]()
DARRYL WEBB / Associated Press
Corey Patterson shares centerfield with his new manager Dusty Baker during their first full day of spring training for the Cubs at Fitch Park on Fenb. 18, 2003.
![A baseball finds a new home during a 2008 Cactus...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
A baseball finds a new home during a 2008 Cactus League game in Tucson, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Ed Howard runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Ed Howard runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs vice president of player personnel Matt Dorey watches drills...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs vice president of player personnel Matt Dorey watches drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Eloy Jimenez poses for a photo with Nick Madrigal while...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Eloy Jimenez poses for a photo with Nick Madrigal while walking between practice fields during White Sox spring training at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 26, 2021.
![Jose Abreu watches Tim Anderson kick Yoan Moncada from behind...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Jose Abreu watches Tim Anderson kick Yoan Moncada from behind during White Sox spring training at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 28, 2021.
![Eloy Jimenez bats during White Sox spring training at Camelback...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Eloy Jimenez bats during White Sox spring training at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 21, 2018.
![Chris Sale (left) works out at a White Sox spring...]()
Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
Chris Sale (left) works out at a White Sox spring training practice on Feb. 19, 2013.
![Dexter Fowler practices bunting at spring training on Feb. 25,...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Dexter Fowler practices bunting at spring training on Feb. 25, 2015.
![Cubs prospect Kevin Made runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Kevin Made runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![White Sox outfielders Luis Basabe and Eloy Jimenez pose at...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
White Sox outfielders Luis Basabe and Eloy Jimenez pose at spring training on Feb. 14, 2019.
![Paul Konerko signs autographs on March 3, 2014, before a...]()
Chris Walker / Chicago Tribune
Paul Konerko signs autographs on March 3, 2014, before a spring training game against the Royals.
![Cubs pitching prospect Max Bain warms up during a minor-league...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Max Bain warms up during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![White Sox pitcher Bartolo Colon in the first game at...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
White Sox pitcher Bartolo Colon in the first game at the new spring training facility on March 1, 2009.
![Adam Dunn heads to the clubhouse after signing numerous autographs...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
Adam Dunn heads to the clubhouse after signing numerous autographs at Camelback Ranch on February 26, 2011.
![Javier Baez signs autographs before a Cubs spring training game...]()
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
Javier Baez signs autographs before a Cubs spring training game on Feb. 24, 2018.
![Cubs pitching prospect Daniel Palencia warms up during a minor-league...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Daniel Palencia warms up during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs infielders Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo watch batting practice...]()
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cubs infielders Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo watch batting practice during spring training at the Under Armour Performance Center on Feb. 16, 2017.
![White Sox pitchers pose for a photograph at the French...]()
Chicago Tribune
White Sox pitchers pose for a photograph at the French Lick Springs hotel auditorium in March 1943. Left to right are: Ed Weiland, Don Hanski, Joe Haynes, Orval Grove, Thornton Lee, and an unnamed player.
![Robin Ventura walks between fields during spring training on Saturday, Feb....]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Robin Ventura walks between fields during spring training on Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016, in Glendale, Ariz.
![A White Sox fan shows a birthday appreciation for Paul...]()
Chris Walker / Chicago Tribune
A White Sox fan shows a birthday appreciation for Paul Konerko on his birthday on March 5, 2014, before a game against the Padres at Camelback Ranch in Glendale, Ariz.
![White Sox's Yoan Moncada checks on the rainy weather while...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
White Sox's Yoan Moncada checks on the rainy weather while waiting his turn at photo day on Feb. 21, 2019 in Glendale, Ariz.
![White Sox players climb from the dugout for the singing...]()
Chris Walker / Chicago Tribune
White Sox players climb from the dugout for the singing of "God Bless America" on March 3, 2014 during a spring training game against the Royals.
![Bill Veeck Jr. with Cubs manager Joe McCarthy at spring...]()
Chicago Tribune
Bill Veeck Jr. with Cubs manager Joe McCarthy at spring training in 1928 (when Veeck's father William Veeck Sr. was president of the team).
![Cubs pitching prospect Jordan Wicks warms up during a minor-league...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Jordan Wicks warms up during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![White Sox players stretch at spring training in Glendale, Ariz.,...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
White Sox players stretch at spring training in Glendale, Ariz., on Feb. 24, 2015.
![Marlon Byrd watches as Reed Johnson's two-year-old son Tyce gets...]()
Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
Marlon Byrd watches as Reed Johnson's two-year-old son Tyce gets ready to swing his bat as pitchers and catchers officially report at Fitch Park in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 18, 2012.
![Cubs pitching prospects Luis Devers, left, and Burl Carraway talk...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospects Luis Devers, left, and Burl Carraway talk during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs pitching prospect Max Bain moves to another practice field...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Max Bain moves to another practice field after warming up during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs pitching prospect Kohl Franklin stretches out during a minor-league...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Kohl Franklin stretches out during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Pedro Ramirez runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Pedro Ramirez runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) stretches before the the...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) stretches before the the first inning of a spring training game against the Padres at the Peoria Sports Complex on March 1, 2021.
![Cubs prospect Ed Howard runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Ed Howard runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs fans Anthony, 5, and Javier Nava, 8, look up...]()
Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
Cubs fans Anthony, 5, and Javier Nava, 8, look up at Alfonso Soriano at Fitch Park in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 18, 2013.
![Cubs pitching prospect Max Bain, middle, pauses as he warms...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Max Bain, middle, pauses as he warms up during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![John Danks and the Arizona sky during a spring training...]()
Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
John Danks and the Arizona sky during a spring training practice in Glendale, Ariz., on Feb. 19, 2013.
![Cubs pitching prospect Jordan Wicks (48) watches teammates as they...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Jordan Wicks (48) watches teammates as they show him their pitching grips during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![The Cubs line up for a portrait before exercising at...]()
Chicago Tribune historical photo
The Cubs line up for a portrait before exercising at their spring training camp in French Lick, Ind., in March 1943. They are, left to right, Leslie Fleming, Bill Lee, Lon Warneke, Paul Derringer, Bob McCall, Hiram Bithorn, Ed Hanyzewski, Jonas Berry, William Sahlin, Walter Signer, Jake Mooty, Ray Prim, Claude Passeau and Paul Erickson.
![White Sox general manager, Ken "Hawk" Harrelson tries his hand...]()
Associated Press
White Sox general manager, Ken "Hawk" Harrelson tries his hand at the catcher position at spring training in Sarasota, Fla., on March 1, 1986.
![Cubs center fielder Ian Happ during batting practice in Mesa,...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs center fielder Ian Happ during batting practice in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 17, 2019.
![Chicago Cubs third base coach Will Venable fields balls while...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs third base coach Will Venable fields balls while players hit during spring training at Sloan Park on Feb. 21, 2020.
![White Sox manager Tony LaRussa watches as the new general...]()
John Swart / Associated Press
White Sox manager Tony LaRussa watches as the new general manager, Ken Harrelson, tosses the ball on Feb. 22, 1986, in Sarasota, Fla. This was the first workout Harrelson attended as the general manager after moving to the front office from the announcers booth.
![Cubs pitching prospect Jordan Wicks arrives at a practice field...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Jordan Wicks arrives at a practice field during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Chicago White Sox manager Rick Renteria watches his pitchers at...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago White Sox manager Rick Renteria watches his pitchers at practice on Feb. 14, 2019.
![Cubs prospect Owen Caissie runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Owen Caissie runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs players watch Starlin Castro's at bat in the second...]()
Jos M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Cubs players watch Starlin Castro's at bat in the second inning against the Giants in a Cactus League game at HoHoKam Park on Feb. 24, 2013.
![Cubs pitcher Ryan Demptser throws during a spring training game...]()
Isaac Brekken / Associated Press
Cubs pitcher Ryan Demptser throws during a spring training game against the White Sox on March 13, 2010 in Las Vegas. .
![Cubs prospect Yohendrick Pinango runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Yohendrick Pinango runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Steve Pump paints social distancing squares in the center field...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Steve Pump paints social distancing squares in the center field lawn in an effort to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 during White Sox spring training at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 24, 2021.
![Cubs pitching prospect Caleb Kilian warms up during a minor-league...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Caleb Kilian warms up during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![White Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito throws on Feb. 16, 2019...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
White Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito throws on Feb. 16, 2019 during spring training in Glendale, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Ed Howard runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Ed Howard runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Owen Caissie runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Owen Caissie runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Brian Bogusevic sprays sun screen in the dugout prior to...]()
Jos M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Brian Bogusevic sprays sun screen in the dugout prior to a Cactus League game against the Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium.
![Caught by surprise is Cubs minor league hitting coach Von...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
Caught by surprise is Cubs minor league hitting coach Von Joshua on Feb. 25, 2011.
![The throw gets past White Sox second baseman Tadahito Iguchi...]()
ED ANDRIESKI / Associated Press
The throw gets past White Sox second baseman Tadahito Iguchi as the Cubs' Jacque Jones tries to steal second base during the third inning of a spring training game in Tucson, Ariz., on March 16, 2007.
![Cubs prospect P.J. Higgins runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect P.J. Higgins runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Yoan Moncada smiles while walking between practice fields during White...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Yoan Moncada smiles while walking between practice fields during White Sox spring training at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 26, 2021.
![Cubs prospect Kevin Alcantara runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Kevin Alcantara runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
!["Little Paulie," Paul Konerko's bobblehead, was brought by Steve Baggio...]()
Chris Walker / Chicago Tribune
"Little Paulie," Paul Konerko's bobblehead, was brought by Steve Baggio in hopes of getting an autograph from the real deal at a spring training game in 2014.
![White Sox shortstop Alexei Ramirez autographs items for fans before...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
White Sox shortstop Alexei Ramirez autographs items for fans before a game against the Mariners in a Cactus League game at Camelback Ranch on March 7, 2015.
![Cubs starting pitcher Yu Darvish stretches against a wall at...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs starting pitcher Yu Darvish stretches against a wall at spring training on Feb. 17, 2019.
![Cubs prospect Kevin Made runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Kevin Made runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Anthony Rizzo during a spring yraining at HoHoKam Park in...]()
Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
Anthony Rizzo during a spring yraining at HoHoKam Park in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 21, 2013.
![As rain falls, Darwin Barney ducks into the batting cages...]()
Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
As rain falls, Darwin Barney ducks into the batting cages at Fitch Park in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 20, 2013.
![Cubs pitching prospect Kohl Franklin warms up during a minor-league...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Kohl Franklin warms up during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf watches the infielders during workouts...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf watches the infielders during workouts at the team's spring training facility in Tucson, Ariz., on February 24, 2005.
![It's a new uniform and a new city for Joe...]()
JEFF TOPPING / CHICAGO TRIBUNE
It's a new uniform and a new city for Joe Girardi as he returns to the Cubs after playing with the World Champions New York Yankees on Feb. 17, 2000.
![White Sox pitcher Charlie Hough is shown during a workout...]()
JOHN SWART / Chicago Tribune
White Sox pitcher Charlie Hough is shown during a workout on March 17, 1991, in Sarasota, Fla.
![Cubs players warm up before practice during spring training on...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs players warm up before practice during spring training on Feb. 22, 2017.
![Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo talk as Cubs spring training...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo talk as Cubs spring training begins on Feb. 20, 2015.
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Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
Dayan Viciedo and Alex Rios at a spring training practice on Feb. 19, 2013.
![Michael Restovich in right field for the White Sox during...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
Michael Restovich in right field for the White Sox during a game at their new Camelback Ranch facility in Glendale, Ariz., on March 1, 2009.
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Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
Alfonso Soriano and Starlin Castro before an intrasquad game at HoHoKam Park in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 21, 2013.
![Michael Ynoa walks by a puddle during the Chicago White...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Michael Ynoa walks by a puddle during the Chicago White Sox spring training at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 20, 2017.
![Jose Abreu, Eloy Jimenez, Yoan Moncada and other White Sox...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Jose Abreu, Eloy Jimenez, Yoan Moncada and other White Sox players walk to a practice field during spring training at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 19, 2020.
![Cubs pitchers Kerry Wood, Carlos Zambrano and Greg Maddux during...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Cubs pitchers Kerry Wood, Carlos Zambrano and Greg Maddux during running drills in the first day of spring training training in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 17, 2005.
![Yu Darvish pitches during the second day of Cubs spring...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Yu Darvish pitches during the second day of Cubs spring training at Sloan Park on Feb. 15, 2018.
![White Sox third baseman Joe Crede throws the first day...]()
M. Spencer Green / Associated Press
White Sox third baseman Joe Crede throws the first day of spring training on Feb. 16, 2008, in Tucson, Ariz. Crede arrived at spring training early to work on returning from back surgery he had eight months ago.
![Cubs prospect Owen Caissie runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Owen Caissie runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Riley Thompson catches a football during a minor-league...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Riley Thompson catches a football during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![White Sox players warm up during spring training at Camelback...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
White Sox players warm up during spring training at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 19, 2020.
![Cubs prospect Max Bain runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Max Bain runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs outfielder Aaron Cunningham, left, and other players wait below...]()
Chris Walker / Chicago Tribune
Cubs outfielder Aaron Cunningham, left, and other players wait below the stadium amid a rain delay before a spring training game against the Giants on March 1, 2014. The game was eventually cancelled.
![Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant chats with fans as he...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant chats with fans as he autographs balls before a game against the Reds at Sloan Park in Mesa, Ariz. on March 6, 2015.
![Cubs pitching prospects Luis Devers (43) and Kohl Franklin hug...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospects Luis Devers (43) and Kohl Franklin hug during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs fan Erin Fitzgerald watches batting practice at spring training...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Cubs fan Erin Fitzgerald watches batting practice at spring training at Sloan Park in Mesa, Ariz. on March 9, 2015.
![Michael Kopech pitches in the bullpen during White Sox spring...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Michael Kopech pitches in the bullpen during White Sox spring training at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 16, 2018, in Glendale, Ariz.
![Relief pitcher David Robertson and other White Sox players on...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Relief pitcher David Robertson and other White Sox players on Feb. 21, 2015.
![Jake Arrieta walks near a group pitchers before throwing during...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Jake Arrieta walks near a group pitchers before throwing during Cubs spring training at Sloan Park on Feb. 27, 2021.
![Kyle Schwarber warms up during the second day of Cubs...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kyle Schwarber warms up during the second day of Cubs spring training at Sloan Park on Feb. 15, 2018.
![Alberto Gonzalez and Brett Jackson on Cubs photo day at...]()
Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
Alberto Gonzalez and Brett Jackson on Cubs photo day at Fitch Park in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 18, 2013.
![White Sox starting pitcher Chris Sale throws batting practice at...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
White Sox starting pitcher Chris Sale throws batting practice at a spring training practice on Feb. 24, 2015.
![Javier Baez, with a MLB logo tattoo on the back...]()
Jos M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Javier Baez, with a MLB logo tattoo on the back of his neck, during the National Anthem before a Catcus league game against the Angels.
![Cubs prospect Reginald Preciado runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Reginald Preciado runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs catching prospect John Hicks, second from left, leads a...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs catching prospect John Hicks, second from left, leads a group of teammates to the practice fields during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![The Cubs' Ron Santo brought his own cub, three-year-old son...]()
Chicago Tribune
The Cubs' Ron Santo brought his own cub, three-year-old son Ron Jr., to spring training in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs minor-league hitting coach Rachel Folden pitches batting practice during...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs minor-league hitting coach Rachel Folden pitches batting practice during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Reginald Preciado runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Reginald Preciado runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Yoendrick Pinango runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Yoendrick Pinango runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect Christian Franklin runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Christian Franklin runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Ryan Sweeney's shadow is cast on Feb. 24, 2014, at...]()
Chris Walker / Chicago Tribune
Ryan Sweeney's shadow is cast on Feb. 24, 2014, at Cubs photo day.
![White Sox bench coach Mark Parent and manager Robin Ventura...]()
Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
White Sox bench coach Mark Parent and manager Robin Ventura position left fielder Dewayne Wise in the first inning of a game against the Dodgers on Feb. 24, 2013.
![Cubs Hall of Famer Ferguson Jenkins leads the crowd in...]()
Chris Walker / Chicago Tribune
Cubs Hall of Famer Ferguson Jenkins leads the crowd in "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" during seventh-inning stretch of a game against the Diamondbacks on opening day at a new stadium in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 27, 2014.
![The Cubs grounds crew repairs the pitcher's mound on Feb....]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
The Cubs grounds crew repairs the pitcher's mound on Feb. 19, 2015, at Sloan Park.
![Cubs prospect Yohendrick Pinango runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Yohendrick Pinango runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo walks through the dugout after...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo walks through the dugout after the first inning of an exhibition game against the White Sox at spring training on Feb. 27, 2017 in Mesa, Ariz.
![Yoan Moncada sticks his tongue out while waiting to bat...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Yoan Moncada sticks his tongue out while waiting to bat during White Sox spring training at Camelback Ranch on Feb. 21, 2018.
![White Sox pitcher Michael Kopech attends practice during spring training...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
White Sox pitcher Michael Kopech attends practice during spring training on Feb. 16, 2020, in Glendale, Ariz.
![Cubs minor-league hitting coach Rachel Folden watches during a minor-league...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs minor-league hitting coach Rachel Folden watches during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs outfielder Sammy Sosa greets his teammates on the field...]()
ERIC RISBERG / Associated Press
Cubs outfielder Sammy Sosa greets his teammates on the field at Fitch Park after making his debut at spring training in Mesa, Ariz., on March 1, 1999.
![Ben Zobrist stretches with other players during spring training, Feb....]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist stretches with other players during spring training, Feb. 25, 2016.
![Cubs manager Charley Grimm (left) and Gabby Hartnett with a...]()
AP
Cubs manager Charley Grimm (left) and Gabby Hartnett with a leopard cub on March 14, 1937, at spring training.
![Workmen scatter sand on the grass that will be the...]()
Chicago Tribune historical photo
Workmen scatter sand on the grass that will be the infield of the baseball diamond where the Cubs will practice in French Lick Springs, Ind., in March 1944.
![Cubs prospect Kevin Alcantara runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Kevin Alcantara runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs batting practice at Sloan Park in Mesa, Ariz. on...]()
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Cubs batting practice at Sloan Park in Mesa, Ariz. on March 6, 2015.
![The grounds crew waters the field before Cubs practice on...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
The grounds crew waters the field before Cubs practice on Feb. 20, 2015.
![Kyle Schwarber sits outside after practice during spring training at...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kyle Schwarber sits outside after practice during spring training at Sloan Park on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs prospect James Triantos runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect James Triantos runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant smiles in the dugout before...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant smiles in the dugout before the first inning of a Cactus League game against the Padres on Feb. 25, 2019.
![Cubs announcer Harry Caray is shown during a spring training...]()
MICHAEL MEINHARDT / Chicago Tribune
Cubs announcer Harry Caray is shown during a spring training game at Hohokam Park in Mesa, Ariz., on March 25, 1994.
![White Sox pitcher Mark Buehrle catches some early morning rays...]()
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
White Sox pitcher Mark Buehrle catches some early morning rays just before workouts on Feb. 26, 2005.
![Catchers Kyle Schwarber and David Ross on Feb. 27, 2015,...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Catchers Kyle Schwarber and David Ross on Feb. 27, 2015, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs pitching prospect Kohl Franklin, right, talks with a coach...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Kohl Franklin, right, talks with a coach during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Cubs general manager Carter Hawkins, left, and vice president of...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs general manager Carter Hawkins, left, and vice president of player development Jared Banner watch workouts during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Tim Anderson singles in the 4th inning of a practice...]()
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
Tim Anderson singles in the 4th inning of a practice game against the Reds at spring training on Feb. 25, 2018.
![Members of the Cubs staff walk by a group of...]()
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Members of the Cubs staff walk by a group of pitchers throwing on practice mounds on the first day of full squad workouts at Sloan Park on Feb. 22, 2021,
![Michael Jordan at a press conference after signing with the...]()
EDUARDO CONTRERAS / CHICAGO TRIBUNE
Michael Jordan at a press conference after signing with the White Sox on Feb. 7, 1994.
![Cubs pitching prospect Burl Carraway warms up during a minor-league...]()
Ross D. Franklin / AP
Cubs pitching prospect Burl Carraway warms up during a minor-league minicamp workout March 1, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![Carlos Quentin at White Sox spring training on Feb. 25,...]()
Phil Velasquez / Chicago Tribune
Carlos Quentin at White Sox spring training on Feb. 25, 2008.
![Inside the Cubs dugout before an intrasquad game at rainy...]()
Scott Strazzante / Chicago Tribune
Inside the Cubs dugout before an intrasquad game at rainy HoHoKam Park in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 21, 2013.
![Cubs prospect Ismael Mena runs drills during a minor-league minicamp...]()
Matt York / AP
Cubs prospect Ismael Mena runs drills during a minor-league minicamp Feb. 28, 2022, in Mesa, Ariz.
![White Sox third baseman Matt Davidson prepares for practice on...]()
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
White Sox third baseman Matt Davidson prepares for practice on Feb. 26, 2015, in Glendale, Ariz.
A couple of months ago, Chicago Cubs prospect James Triantos received a phone call with an offer.
Former Cubs slugger Kyle Schwarber reached out and told Triantos if he ever wanted to make the trip from his home in Virginia to see Schwarber in Ohio, they could hit together.
Triantos initially met Schwarber last year, sparking a connection in which the 2021 All-Star and 2016 World Series champion calls and checks up on him once in a while. So Triantos traveled to Ohio, where Schwarber lives, and spent a few days during the offseason hitting with the big-leaguer.
Schwarber’s kindness in helping a young player with just 25 games of professional experience wasn’t lost on Triantos, who called Schwarber a really nice, down-to-earth guy.
“Being able to have a simple conversation with me about hitting or me to be able to ask him a question here and there and just having the courtesy to answer me, nobody has to do that,” Triantos told the Tribune. “Not many people would do that, so I’m just really appreciative of the relationship and what he’s done for me.”
Among their conversations, Schwarber’s advice about the mental side of the game and the long path it can take to work one’s way up the minor-league system stood out the most to Triantos.
“But if I stay consistent with my work and worry about things that I can control, that’s when things are going to start working out for me,” Triantos said. “So just trust the things I can trust. I don’t have to change anything and just stick with what I know and play to my confidence and I’ll be all right.”
Triantos, who turned 19 in January, reclassified to be draft eligible a year earlier, and it paid off when the Cubs selected him in the second round in 2021 out of James Madison High School in Vienna, Va., in suburban Washington, D.C. He received an over-slot $2.1 million signing bonus to forgo his college commitment to the University of North Carolina.
Triantos posted a .327/.376/.594 slash line in 109 plate appearances in the Arizona Complex League after signing. He flashed power with six home runs, seven doubles and a triple.
In high school, Triantos’ understanding of the strike zone and ability to make contact were strengths. He recalled striking out only once during his final season, joking, “I thought there was a hole in my bat.”
“James’ swing, it is what it is now, so he’s not going to change much and you don’t worry about him seeing anybody else and changing mechanics,” minor-league hitting coordinator Dustin Kelly told the Tribune. “But just the wisdom of somebody who’s been in the box so much more, for him to be able to be around older players (such as Schwarber) — because that’s where James is going to make some big strides is just the on-field experience of playing at a higher level.
“And if you can get that from other players and even other players outside of the organization, major-leaguers, it has to help.”
Triantos was drafted as a shortstop but is more likely to play second or third base as he continues to develop. He has started taking reps at third and said he loves playing on the left side of the infield.
He said in the past couple of years he started to take more pride in his defense and tried to improve in that area. In the offseason, Triantos focused on daily defensive drills that included thinking about the six F’s of fielding: feet, field, funnel, footwork, fire, follow.
Triantos believed he was ready for the next step when he opted for pre-draft reclassification last year, and the decision has quickly yielded positive results.
“Wherever I go, I kind of have a chip on my shoulder, but it’s more of I’m always going to outwork everyone,” Triantos said. “But that’s kind of how I’ve always been. It’s not like looking down on everyone else. I take pride in my work. I love to work hard and I love this game of baseball.
“I have one of the greatest opportunities in the world and I want to make the most of it.”
