You’re staring at the screen, TV remote in hand, wondering what's the score of the Cubs game tonight, and honestly? The answer is a little disappointing if you were hoping for a box score. There isn't one.
It’s mid-January. Chicago is currently a frozen tundra, and Wrigley Field is tucked away under a layer of frost and silence.
While the crack of the bat is still months away, the "score" for the Cubs right now isn't measured in runs or hits. It’s measured in million-dollar contracts and roster spots. If you're a die-hard fan, you know that the real action isn't happening on the grass at Clark and Addison—it’s happening in the front office and at the Sheraton Grand Chicago for the 2026 Cubs Convention.
What's the score of the Cubs game tonight: The reality of the MLB calendar
Baseball is a marathon, but January is the time when the runners are still picking out their shoes.
Right now, the Chicago Cubs are in the thick of the offseason. There are no games tonight, January 16, 2026, because Spring Training doesn't even kick off for another few weeks. The official 2026 season opener isn't until March 26 against the Washington Nationals.
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So, if you’re looking for a live score, you’re out of luck. But if you’re looking for the "win" of the week, look no further than the news that just dropped regarding Alex Bregman.
The blockbuster move: Bregman is a North Sider
If we’re scoring the offseason, Jed Hoyer just hit a grand slam. Just days ago, the Cubs finalized a massive five-year, $175 million deal to bring third baseman Alex Bregman to Chicago.
Bregman is a game-changer. Period.
- Experience: Two-time World Series champion.
- Stats: Over 200 career home runs and a Gold Glove to boot.
- Fit: He slots right into the hot corner, providing the veteran leadership this young roster desperately needs.
Jed Hoyer basically told the media yesterday that he isn't done yet. During Bregman's introductory press conference, Hoyer made it clear that while they’ve "checked some big boxes," they’re still hunting for more talent. That's the kind of score fans should care about tonight.
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Why fans are asking about the score tonight
There’s a specific reason you might have "Cubs" on the brain this evening. Today, January 16, marks the start of the 2026 Cubs Convention.
It’s the 150th anniversary of the franchise. It’s also the 10th anniversary of the legendary 2016 World Series win. The city is buzzing. The Sheraton Grand is packed with fans wearing jerseys with that special 150th-anniversary patch.
Tonight’s "score" is really about the opening ceremony. The Cubs are introducing the Hall of Fame Class of 2026, and Ryan Dempster is doing his "Off the Mound" talk show. It’s the closest thing to a game atmosphere you’ll get until the snow melts.
Tracking the roster "Scoreboard"
If you want to know how the team is actually looking for 2026, here’s a quick breakdown of the moves that actually matter:
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- The Edward Cabrera Trade: The Cubs sent Owen Caissie and others to Miami to get a high-ceiling starter. This moves the needle for a rotation that needs a spark alongside Shota Imanaga.
- Bullpen Rebuild: They’ve been quietly scooping up arms like Phil Maton and Jacob Webb. It’s not flashy, but it’s how you win in October.
- Waiver Claims: Just yesterday, they claimed infielder Benjamin Cowles off waivers from the White Sox. It’s a depth move, but a smart one.
Misconceptions about January Baseball
A lot of people forget that the "score" of a season is often decided in these quiet winter months.
I’ve seen folks get frustrated that the MLB doesn't have a winter league like some other sports, but the downtime is vital. It’s when the medical staff evaluates guys like Justin Steele—who’s coming back from elbow surgery—and when the scouts finalize their boards for the 2026 draft.
The Cubs are currently projected as the fourth-best roster in the National League by several analysts, trailing only the Dodgers, Phillies, and Brewers. If they manage to snag another arm like Ranger Suarez, that ranking could climb.
How to keep up without a live score
Since you can't refresh a scoreboard tonight, here is what you should be doing to stay in the loop:
- Watch Marquee Sports Network: They are broadcasting the Cubs Convention events all weekend.
- Check the Transactions: Follow the MLB trade rumors sites; the Cubs still have one open spot on the 40-man roster.
- WBC Commitments: Keep an eye on the World Baseball Classic news. Bregman just announced he’s playing for Team USA, which is a big deal for his preparation heading into the season.
The real "score" for the Cubs tonight is $175 million spent, a revitalized fan base at the convention, and a roster that finally looks like it can compete for the NL Central crown again.
To get the most out of this offseason, head over to the official MLB Cubs schedule page and sync it to your calendar now. You'll want to be ready when the first pitch actually happens in March. Keep a close eye on the remaining free-agent outfielders, as that's the final piece of the puzzle Hoyer is likely looking to solve before Spring Training begins in Mesa.