Cubs win 8-1 over Dodgers; Dale Sveum announces starting rotation

The Cubs get a "W" in their exhibition game against the Los Angeles Dodgers this afternoon.  Chris Rusin had a great outing as he allowed just one hit and no runs while striking out one and walking one batter over five innings pitched.  The final score was 8-1.

Left handed pitcher Chris Rusin allowed just one hit over five innings against the Dodgers on Thursday (photo from cubs.com)

The Cubs bats returned today as Brent Lillibridge and Darnell McDonald had hits in their first two at-bats.  Welington Castillo also had a two-run triple and Brian Bogusevic had a two-run double.  Josh Vitters also made his first appearance in a spring training game since he was out for a quad injury.

Cubs manager Dale Sveum announced that the starting rotation at the start of the season will be (in the following order):

Jeff Samardzija, Edwin Jackson, Travis Wood, Scott Feldman and Carlos Villanueva.  Once Matt Garza and Scott Baker are healthy, they are both expected to join the starting rotation.  This means that the "Shark" will pitch when the Cubs open their season on the road in Pittsburgh on April 1st.  Edwin Jackson will get the call for the Home Opener at Wrigley Field on April 8th.  

Edwin Jackson will be the starting pitcher for the Cubs Home Opener on April 8th (AP photo)

Just 19 more days until Opening Day and 26 until the Home Opener!  Can't wait to sing "Go Cubs Go!"