Cubs' Marcus Stroman Records Six Scoreless Innings, 8 K's in Season Opener

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Marcus Stroman impressed in his 2023 season debut, making quick work for the Milwaukee Brewers' lineup at Wrigley Field Thursday afternoon. Stroman allowed no runs on three hits and three walks, striking out eight in six innings in his first Opening Day start since 2019.

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Marcus Stroman impressed in his 2023 season debut, making quick work for the Milwaukee Brewers' lineup at Wrigley Field Thursday afternoon.

Stroman allowed no runs on three hits and three walks, striking out eight in six innings in his first Opening Day start since 2019.

Kyle Hendricks started the Cubs' last three Opening Days, but is beginning the 2023 season on the Injured List with a shoulder injury. In Hendricks' absence, Stroman rose to the occasion, handing the Cubs' bullpen a 4-0 lead over Milwaukee in the seventh inning. It was Stroman's third Opening Day start of his career, and his first since joining the Cubs prior to the 2022 season. Stroman signed a three-year, $71 million deal with the Cubs, after pitching for the New York Mets and Toronto Blue Jays. As a member of the Blue Jays, Stroman made two Opening Day starts.

Stroman's contract includes a player option following the 2023 season, meaning that if he wants to hit the free agent market again later this year, he will have the opportunity to do so.

The Cubs will be without Hendricks to open the season. For the time being, the club's pitching rotation will consist of Stroman, Drew Smyly, Jameson Taillon, Justin Steele and Hayden Wesneski.

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