Los Angeles AngelsOpen full analysisVSChicago CubsOpen full analysis

The Los Angeles Angels defeated the Chicago Cubs 2–0 on March 31 at Wrigley Field in a low-scoring affair that fell well short of the Vegas total of 1. The Angels' pitching staff dominated, allowing just 4 hits and 0 earned runs while striking out 8 Cubs batters and posting a 3.53 ERA. Chicago's offense sputtered throughout, managing only 4 hits with an anemic .219 batting average and .677 OPS, while striking out 8 times despite drawing 4 walks. The Angels manufactured their runs despite modest offensive output of their own—5 hits and 2 RBI—but their superior plate discipline (7 walks) and pitching efficiency proved decisive. Both teams committed no errors, but the Cubs' inability to capitalize on their 4 walks and the Angels' shutdown pitching created a stark contrast in execution. The Cubs' rotation will need to show sharper command and run prevention as the season progresses.