The Cleveland Guardians began their 2026 Major League Baseball season with a 4-1 road victory over the Chicago Cubs on Thursday, April 3, at Wrigley Field. The game marked the official start of the regular season for both American League Central and National League Central clubs.
Guardians' starting pitcher Shane Bieber delivered a strong performance, allowing just one run on four hits over six innings while striking out six Cubs batters to earn the win. The Guardians' offense was powered by a two-run home run from third baseman JosΓ© RamΓrez in the third inning, providing an early lead the team would not relinquish.
Cubs starter Justin Steele took the loss, surrendering three runs over five innings. The Guardians added an insurance run in the ninth inning. Closer Emmanuel Clase secured the save with a scoreless ninth, sealing the 4-1 final score. The two teams are scheduled to continue their opening series on Saturday, April 5.
