Cubs News: 3 standout performances from Opening Day

3 Cubs standout performances from Opening Day: #1 - The bullpen slams the door late

One of the bigger questions facing the Chicago Cubs in 2023 is the bullpen which features a mix of younger, higher upside arms and proven veterans. Brad Boxberger and Michael Fulmer, the club's two big offseason additions in the pen, shut things down in the eighth and ninth innings, respectively - in a prelude to what may be a regular occurence this year.

Ross hasn't gone out and tapped one particular guy to get the ninth-inning role; something that hasn't been uncommon for the Cubs in recent years. But it's a safe bet that those two guys are at the top of the pecking order - and they showed why on Thursday.

After much debate over whether or not he'd even make the Opening Day roster, right-hander Keegan Thompson fired off a scoreless frame in relief of Stroman, hitting 95 MPH on the Wrigley Field gun, while walking one and striking out one.

All told, it was an efficient, cleanly played game for the North Siders, who get a day off Friday (which is good given the potential for severe weather in the region) before getting back after it on Saturday afternoon. Left-hander Justin Steele will take the ball for the Cubs opposite Brewers right-hander Brandon Woodruff.