Cactus League: Cubs at Dodgers 2/25/13

The Cubs jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the top of the first, as they bid to improve on their 2-0 Cactus League record. Luis Valbuena was given a look in the lead off spot and he responded with a lead off double, as he continued to build an early case for the starting third base job. He would be driven in by a Darwin Barney double before new Cub Nate Schierholtz flexed his muscles for his first Spring homer, a solo job.

Starting rotation hopeful Carlos Villanueva had a rough Cubs debut, only lasting 2/3 of an inning while giving up two runs with one hit and two walks. The Cubs offense picked him up in the third inning, tallying four runs compliments of back to back jacks by Darnell McDonaldand Welington Castillo.

Feb 18, 2013; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs player Darnell McDonald poses for a picture during photo day at Fitch Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

Unfortunately the Cubs bullpen could not hold the advantage, led by Robert Whitenack being tagged for three runs in an appearance lacking control. The Cubs pitching prospect issued two walks and hit a batter to get himself into trouble. Brian Schlitter gave up the tying run and minor league non roster invitee Dontrelle Willis got hung with the loss. To add injury to insult, Willis had to leave his appearance early due to some tightness in his shoulder.