A fan captured the moment on video as the rat climbed onto one of the containers used by the Cubs during the game. It was unclear where the animal came from, but it was noticeably large and was later spotted moving around different sections of the stadium, running along the edges and small walls separating the field from the stands.

The video was shared on X by Marcus Leshock, while other Phillies and Cubs fans also caught the rat during the live broadcast. Some recorded their TV screens, revealing the animal roaming farther than initially shown, though the commentators never acknowledged it during the game.

Other rat incidents in MLB

This is not the first time a rat has made an appearance during an MLB game. One of the more recent instances came in 2022 during a matchup between the New York Mets and the Washington Nationals, Bryce Harper’s former team. In that case, the rat was noticed by broadcasters, who even joked about it on air.

There have also been reports at Fenway Park, where a rat was seen running across the outfield, and possibly even inside the Mets’ dugout during a game against the Boston Red Sox. Sightings like these are not uncommon in Boston, though some draw more attention than others.

A rat showing up during a game is hardly an omen. The Phillies may be struggling at 8-15, but their issues have far more to do with on-field performance than anything else. With the loss in Game 2 against the Cubs, they have now extended their current losing streak to seven games.

After the game, Harper delivered a candid assessment of where the team stands. “Yeah, I mean, it’s not where you want to be, obviously. It’s not where we thought we were going to be starting the season. But we can’t really worry about that. We’ve got to flush things as quick as possible and get into tomorrow—that’s part of the game,” he said, according to NBC Sports Philadelphia on X.

The Phillies now sit at 8-14, having dropped six straight and seven of their last eight. They’ve been outscored 42‑10 during that stretch, exposing issues across the roster. Chicago controlled this matchup from the start, building a lead that never seemed in doubt, even as players like Kyle Schwarber continue to project confidence about where the team can go.

Phillies’ inconsistency continues to show on both sides of the ball

Aaron Nola’s outing reflected the broader struggles within the rotation, as the right-hander allowed five earned runs over 4 1/3 innings. The game turned quickly in the second inning when Dansby Swanson delivered a three-run home run, creating an early gap the Phillies never closed.

Offensively, Philadelphia managed just one run despite recording six hits. Harper acknowledged that recent results have not always matched the quality of contact. “I think we’ve had that pretty lately. I think a couple guys here and there have had some pretty hard-hit balls the last couple days, and they just haven’t fallen, but that’s part of the game,” he added.

Harper emphasizes need for immediate improvement as pressure builds

While some elements may come down to timing and luck, Harper made it clear that execution must improve across the board. “We’ve got to win. We’ve got to be better on both sides of the ball. Just got to win games,” he said, underscoring the urgency inside the clubhouse.

The Cubs, meanwhile, received a strong performance from Colin Rea, who threw 6 2/3 innings of one-run baseball while keeping the Phillies’ lineup off balance. Combined with solid defense, Chicago maintained control throughout the game.

For Philadelphia, the path forward centers on adjustments and accountability. With the standings beginning to take shape, Harper’s message reflects a team aware that time is becoming a factor, and that turning things around must happen sooner rather than later.

According to the team’s announcement on X, left-handed pitcher Kyle Backhus was recalled from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to fill the open spot on the 26-man roster. The Phillies did not immediately provide a detailed timeline for Pop’s recovery.

Pop has worked mainly out of the bullpen this season and has also made one start. He holds a 3.68 ERA in his first year with Philadelphia after spending the 2025 season between the Seattle Mariners and New York Mets, a year before the club made a similar move when Phillies placed Yoniel Curet on waivers and the Tigers added him.

How will the Phillies adjust their bullpen without Zach Pop?

The Phillies will now have to manage their relief options more carefully as they prepare to face the Cubs on Wednesday. Pop’s absence removes a depth arm from a bullpen that has been frequently used in close games this month.

Philadelphia enters the matchup at 8–9, sitting a few games behind Atlanta in the NL East standings. While the start has been uneven, the club remains confident the offense will improve over time, especially in key situations with runners on base.

Infielder Trea Turner recently pointed to execution in those moments, emphasizing that the team is close but needs cleaner at-bats to convert opportunities into wins. The Phillies will look to stabilize their roster and avoid further setbacks as the schedule tightens in the coming weeks.

“I think everybody knows in here that we can play a lot better baseball, and we will,” Bregman told reporters, speaking shortly after the Cubs dropped their series to the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Ahead of the series finale, Bregman remained outwardly confident in the team’s long-term outlook. His poise comes at a time of significant external uncertainty regarding the franchise’s ability to turn the corner in the coming weeks.

Beyond their on-field struggles, the Cubs are bracing for the worst as top prospect Cade Horton deals with a troubling injury. Horton joins a growing list of sidelined arms that includes Matthew Boyd, who is currently stationed on the 15-day Injured List.

What explains the Cubs’ slow start?

The primary culprit behind Chicago’s sluggish start is undoubtedly the injury bug. With rotation staples like Horton, Justin Steele, and Boyd all hampered, the Cubs have been forced to lean heavily on Shota Imanaga and Edward Cabrera, arms that are beginning to show the strain of an overextended rotation.

Furthermore, the Cubs have lacked traditional power at first base following a major blow to the roster: cornerstone Tyler Austin underwent knee surgery. His replacement, Michael Busch, has struggled mightily in the early going, limping to a .125 batting average.

Offensive woes haven’t been limited to the corners. While Nico Hoerner has been a bright spot, slashing .326 with a .970 OPS, the rest of the lineup has failed to follow suit. The lack of production from Busch and Dansby Swanson has hampered the offense, allowing the Milwaukee Brewers to widen their lead in the NL Central standings.

Bregman’s early-season slump

If the Cubs are to emerge from this funk, they will need Bregman to find his rhythm. Despite launching two home runs, the high-profile acquisition has struggled to find holes in the defense, scuffling through a 12-for-54 start with only three runs scored.

Currently slashing .207/.281/.328 with a meager .609 OPS, Bregman has yet to set the tone for the Chicago offense. While his recent comments suggest a turnaround is imminent, there is growing concern within the fan base as the team looks for a spark to ignite the rest of the roster.

“The news to this point is not good,” ESPN insider Jesse Rogers said on ESPN Radio Chicago. “The MRI via multiple sources, not good, not clean, and so he is going to see Dr. Keith Meister today. That’s the Tommy John guy, that’s the guy that Justin Steele saw.“

Horton was placed on the 15-day injured list after being pulled from his start, and while no final decision has been made, the combination of an unclear MRI and a consultation with a specialist has raised significant concern about what could come next for the Cubs’ rotation.

Elsewhere, Cubs manager Craig Counsell mapped out Seiya Suzuki’s return via Double-A rehab stint, signaling the Cubs’ broader effort to manage health across the roster

MRI results raise concern about possible long-term absence

The involvement of Keith Meister, a specialist known for performing major elbow procedures, has only added to the uncertainty. While further evaluation could still rule out the most serious outcome, the current direction has prompted speculation about a potentially extended absence.

Rogers emphasized that no official diagnosis has been confirmed, but the situation mirrors past injury timelines that led to significant setbacks for pitchers. For Chicago, even the possibility of losing Horton for a long stretch would represent a major blow early in the season.

Rotation depth under pressure as uncertainty grows

The Cubs already entered the season with concerns about pitching depth, and Horton’s situation only adds to that pressure. The team had made offseason moves to strengthen the staff, but injuries are once again testing that depth.

If Horton is sidelined for a significant period, Chicago may be forced to rely heavily on its remaining arms while exploring internal or external options. For now, the organization awaits clarity, but the tone surrounding this update suggests a critical moment is approaching.

Suzuki received a green light in his recovery this week and is scheduled to begin a rehab assignment with Double-A Tennessee on Friday. According to Taylor McGregor, Counsell indicated that the Japanese standout could rejoin the big-league club in as little as three to seven days.

The return of a foundational pillar like Suzuki provides a much-needed boost to a Cubs offense that has struggled to find its rhythm. While top prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong has flashed potential after being extended by the Cubs, getting Suzuki’s veteran bat back into the heart of the order is a top priority for a team looking to climb above .500.

Tracking Suzuki’s injury

Suzuki’s stint on the shelf dates back to March, when he suffered a right knee PCL sprain while representing Team Japan in a World Baseball Classic quarterfinal matchup against Venezuela.

The Cubs’ medical staff opted for a cautious approach, placing him on the 10-day Injured List. While the sprain wasn’t considered severe, the team prioritized rest and localized strengthening to ensure the outfielder would be at 100% for the long haul of the 162-game season.

Bridging the gap

In Suzuki’s absence, Michael Conforto has been tasked with anchoring the vacancy in the outfield. While Conforto hasn’t quite found his power stroke early on, his plate discipline has remained a bright spot; he currently sports an on-base percentage (OBP) hovering around .330.

Here is a look at how Comforto has fared through the first five games of the season:

According to Bob Nightengale on X, “Anyone accusing the Chicago Cubs for ruining baseball? They have easily spent more money than any team in MLB this winter.” While the quote reflects chatter in the media, it underscores the scale of the Cubs’ commitment to their core roster.

The moves highlight Chicago’s strategy of locking in homegrown talent. Rather than importing high-priced free agents, the Cubs are doubling down on players developed within their system, creating a long-term foundation while entering the league’s high-spending conversation.

Cubs’ strategy and implications

Teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers were once criticized for big spending sprees. Now, with Chicago leading MLB in offseason spending, the Cubs face similar attention, but their focus is on locking in young talent like Crow-Armstrong and Hoerner to maintain roster continuity.

By prioritizing homegrown players over free-agent signings, the Cubs aim for long-term competitiveness while managing payroll growth. Crow-Armstrong and Hoerner are central to this plan, providing stability and star potential for seasons to come.

What this means for MLB

Chicago’s contracts highlight the team’s serious approach to contending. Unlike teams relying heavily on free agents, the Cubs show a model of investing in talent developed internally.

With Crow-Armstrong and Hoerner secured, Chicago blends youth and financial flexibility, setting an example other teams may consider as the 2026 season unfolds.

• Largest recent Cubs commitments:
  • Alex Bregman: $175M
  • Pete Crow-Armstrong: $100M+
  • Seiya Suzuki: $85M
  • Jameson Taillon: $68M
  • Ian Happ: $61M
  • Nico Hoerner: $35M

Nico Hoerner, who was the subject of heavy trade interest from the New York Yankees earlier this spring, remains a vital part of the core, though Crow-Armstrong’s massive payday officially shifts the spotlight to the outfield.

The “bet on himself” payoff

This life-changing contract comes just one year after Crow-Armstrong famously “bet on himself.” Last spring, the center fielder reportedly turned down a $66 million offer from the club, opting to let his play on the field dictate his value.

A rare power-speed-defense profile

The Cubs’ urgency to finalize the deal stems from Crow-Armstrong’s meteoric rise in 2025. He didn’t just meet expectations; he joined the rarest of company.

• Crow-Armstrong became the first Cub since Sammy Sosa to record a 30-home run, 30-steal season, finishing with 31 HRs and 35 SBs.
• He led the Major Leagues with 24 Outs Above Average (OAA), according to Statcast.
• Crow-Armstrong secured his first career Gold Glove last season, establishing a “defensive floor” that ensures he remains an elite asset even during offensive slumps.

Reported contract details

The duration of his contract is reported to be a 6-to-9 year deal, potentially keeping him in Chicago through 2034. The AAV is estimated between $15M – $20M, providing the Cubs with significant surplus value if he maintains his All-Star trajectory.

The deal, reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan, comes after the center fielder delivered a breakout season that established him among the league’s elite young talents. “Center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong and the Chicago Cubs are finalizing a long-term contract extension… Crow-Armstrong, coming off a 30-30 season and a Gold Glove, will get a big payday as the Cubs lock up a franchise-caliber talent,” Passan wrote.

Crow-Armstrong’s 2025 season made the decision clear. He recorded 31 home runs and 35 stolen bases while leading the majors in outs above average, finishing with 6.0 WAR. Despite a quieter second half, the Cubs are betting on his overall impact and long-term upside.

Cubs secure their new franchise leader

By locking in Crow-Armstrong, Chicago is investing in a player who impacts the game in multiple ways. His elite defense in center field, combined with speed and developing power, gives the Cubs a rare all-around talent to anchor their roster.

The extension also reflects confidence in his continued growth, particularly in refining plate discipline. Even with a lower on-base percentage last season, his production and defensive value made him one of the most valuable players in the league.

From rising star to long-term pillar

Crow-Armstrong’s journey adds context to the deal. Acquired from the New York Mets in 2021, he quickly developed into one of baseball’s top prospects before breaking out at the major league level.

Now, as the Cubs look to build on a 92-win season, securing Crow-Armstrong ensures stability and direction. The franchise is not only rewarding past performance but committing to a player expected to lead its next competitive era.

“Seiya Suzuki, who’s dealing with a right knee injury, will not be ready for Opening Day, Cubs manager Craig Counsell said. The club has not yet decided whether Suzuki will start the season on the injured list, but it appears to be trending in that direction,” wrote Patrick Mooney on X (@pj_mooney).

Now Counsell will need to find a way to replace Suzuki on the roster if he does begin the season on the injured list. On March 17, the manager had already revealed that the Japanese star is dealing with a minor PCL strain, which suggests the recovery process may not be too long.

Are the Cubs in trouble without Suzuki?

Not really. Suzuki primarily serves as a designated hitter. Last MLB season he appeared in 97 games in that role, which means the Cubs can turn to other options to fill the spot. One of those is Moises Ballesteros, who was recently announced as available for Opening Day.

According to the Cubs’ depth chart, Michael Conforto is another option following Suzuki’s injury. As a veteran, he provides a reliable presence and can step in as DH when needed.

Two more options for the 2026 season are Matt Shaw and Alex Bregman. Both players are listed as potential fits for that role on the club’s depth chart, as noted by ESPN. That gives Counsell several paths to cover the position early in the season.

“Kervin’s gotten my attention,” manager Aaron Boone said, according to MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch, highlighting the right-hander’s impact during spring training.

Castro, 27, last appeared in the majors in 2022 with the Cubs and the San Francisco Giants, but spent last season in Triple-A within the Yankees organization. His 1.53 ERA in 35 appearances carried into spring, where he has posted a 0.96 ERA with six strikeouts in 9 1/3 innings.

Castro building strong case for bullpen role

With openings still available, Castro has emerged as one of the most consistent arms in camp. His recent performance has put him in direct competition with Jake Bird, Brent Headrick, and Rule 5 pick Cade Winquest.

The Yankees are seeking reliable depth behind primary options, and Castro’s ability to limit runs has made him a compelling option as roster decisions approach.

Yankees bullpen outlook remains key question

Following offseason changes, New York will rely on David Bednar and Camilo Doval to anchor the bullpen, but overall depth remains uncertain heading into the season.

While the roster remains strong in other areas, the bullpen could ultimately determine the team’s ceiling, increasing the importance of internal options like Castro stepping up.