Chicago Cubs Starter Taillon Finishes Incredible Spring Strong
Jameson Taillon is ready for the 2023 MLB season.
The 31-year-old put the finishing touches on what was a great spring with the Chicago Cubs. In his final tune-up before the regular season, Taillon struck out five batters over 5.0 innings while allowing just two hits.
In his previous start, the Lakeland, Fla., native was brilliant, fanning nine over 5.0 innings. He knew it was time to lock everything down heading into the final week before the games begin to count.
"I've built up the pitch count. I thought my last outing, we did a good job of getting into that compete mode. That urgency sets in that it's two starts we're going to (be pitching) in Wrigley," Taillon said after Monday's start.
"Going into today, I knew my next one was going to be in Wrigley. It was time to sharpen everything up, not working on anything, just pitching to my strengths.
Taillon didn't have great command of his fastball on Monday but relied on his cutter and curveball to get batters out.
His repertoire of pitches has been a key standout this spring, a stretch that saw him not walk a single batter.
Taillon's spring numbers were incredible: 18.1 IP, 0 BB, 23 K.
Making four previous starts at Wrigley Field as a member of the visiting clubhouse, the veteran pitcher is looking forward to being embraced by the Cubs faithful in the bleachers.
He has a nervous energy leading up to it.
"I'm really excited, a little bit nervous just going to a place for the first time on the home side, not knowing where to park or what door to go in or where my locker is and all that," he said.
Taillon will be an integral piece of the Cubs rotation this season. If his spring was any indication, he's ready to help the team win some ballgames.
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