Nico Hoerner Misses Tokyo Series, Cubs Prepare

Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner will not travel to Japan for the team's season opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers due to his ongoing recovery from flexor tendon surgery on his right arm. Hoerner is expected to be ready for the Cubs' domestic opening day against the Arizona Diamondbacks on March 27, as his rehabilitation has been progressing well. During the Cubs' trip to Japan, Hoerner will remain in Arizona to gain at-bats in minor-league games, which is deemed more beneficial for his recovery. In his absence, Vidal Brujan and Jon Berti are likely candidates to fill in at second base for the Tokyo series. Meanwhile, Matt Shaw, who has been dealing with an oblique injury, is expected to return to Spring Training games without restrictions. The Cubs are optimistic about their lineup, despite Hoerner's temporary absence, as they prepare for their first games against the Dodgers in Tokyo.