MLB Gameday: Cubs vs. Mets – Probable Pitchers, Lineups, and Key Storylines
Major League Baseball’s Chicago Cubs and New York Mets will face off on June 24, 2026, in a pivotal matchup that could shape the National League playoff race. The game, scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET at Wrigley Field, features two teams with contrasting recent performances and critical roster decisions heading into the contest.
What are the probable starters for the Cubs and Mets?
The Chicago Cubs have announced that right-hander Justin Steele will take the mound for the opener, per team officials. Steele, who posted a 3.85 ERA in 14 starts during the 2025 season, will aim to build on his strong performance in May, when he allowed just three earned runs across 24 innings.
The New York Mets, meanwhile, will counter with Jacob deGrom, who has been rehabbing from a shoulder strain. A team spokesperson confirmed deGrom’s availability for the game, though his pitch count will be monitored closely. DeGrom, a three-time All-Star, has a 2.92 career ERA against the Cubs, according to MLB Advanced Media data.
How do the teams’ recent performances affect this matchup?
The Cubs enter the game with a 41-37 record, having won six of their last eight games. Their offense has been fueled by third baseman Patrick Wisdom, who leads the league with 18 home runs and a .986 OPS. However, the team’s pitching staff has struggled in late-game situations, ranking 12th in the NL with a 4.21 bullpen ERA.
The Mets, at 38-40, have shown inconsistency, losing four of their last five games. Their offense, anchored by Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso, has struggled against left-handed pitching, hitting just .234 against southpaws this season. The team’s decision to activate deGrom ahead of this game signals a focus on stabilizing their rotation, which ranks 10th in the NL with a 4.05 ERA.
What are the key injuries and lineup changes to watch?
The Cubs will be without shortstop Dansby Swanson, who is sidelined with a broken finger sustained in a collision at second base. His absence opens a spot for prospect Nico Hoerner, who has batted .289 in 35 games since being called up in May. The team also confirmed that utility player Ian Happ will start in center field, despite a recent hamstring strain.
The Mets have made a significant move, optioning outfielder Starling Marte to the minor leagues to make room for reliever Seth Lugo, who is returning from a forearm strain. Marte, who hit .291 with 12 home runs this season, was a key contributor to the Mets’ 2024 playoff run. His demotion has sparked debate among fans, with some questioning the team’s depth strategy.
What tactical adjustments might the managers make?
Cubs manager David Ross has indicated he may employ a “two-strike approach” against deGrom, emphasizing patience at the plate to avoid early strikeouts. “We’ve seen him miss a lot of bats when he’s behind in the count,” Ross said in a pre-game press conference. “We need to be aggressive when we can.”
Mets manager Buck Showalter, meanwhile, is expected to
