Cubs News: 3 standout performances from Opening Day

3 Cubs standout performances from Opening Day: #2 - Marcus Stroman tosses six scoreless innings

In my piece offering up some 'wildly optimistic' Cubs Opening Day predictions, I bet on Marcus Stroman outdueling Brewers ace Corbin Burnes - and that's exactly what he did.

The right-hander turned in six scoreless frames, tying his season-high strikeout mark from 2022, punching out eight Brewers hitters and allowing just a trio of base hits. He worked himself out of a big-time jam in the middle innings before turning things over to the bullpen, which was equally impressive (more on that in a moment).

"Great tone-setter for us. I love when he takes the mound, just because he's got some arrogance, swag and a good way about him. That was nice to have out there on Opening Day."

- David Ross, via MLB.com

The addition of Jameson Taillon should solidify the Cubs starting rotation in a big way, but Stroman showed in the second half last year he's more than capable of putting the staff on his back. Seeing him locked in and sharp this early in the season certainly bodes well for what's to come.