World champion Rangers overcome disputed tip and beat Cubs 4-3 on Heim’s 10th-inning single

The Texas Rangers, reigning World Series champions, commenced the season with a thrilling 4-3 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Thursday night, sealed by Jonah Heim’s game-winning RBI single in the 10th inning.

Before securing the dramatic win, the Rangers celebrated their historic World Series triumph by unveiling the franchise’s first championship banner.

Contributions from Adolis García and Travis Jankowski, who both homered, bolstered the Rangers’ offense. Jankowski’s pinch-hit homer in the ninth inning tied the game after a disputed play in the top half of the inning.

Michael Busch’s controversial run for the Cubs, believed by Heim to be a foul tip, stirred contention. However, David Robertson, a veteran reliever signed by Texas in free agency, ultimately secured the victory with his performance in the 10th inning.

The Cubs faced adversity as left-hander Justin Steele, making his first opening-day start, exited the game in the fifth inning due to left hamstring tightness. Despite his departure, Cody Bellinger’s RBI double and Craig Counsell’s managerial debut highlighted Chicago’s efforts.

The sellout crowd of 42,130 at Globe Life Field, the largest ever for a regular-season game at the venue, witnessed the thrilling season opener.

In terms of injuries, the Cubs placed Jameson Taillon and Patrick Wisdom on the injured list, while the Rangers sidelined Tyler Mahle, Michael Lorenzen, and Nathaniel Lowe due to various injuries.

Looking ahead, the Cubs will rely on RHP Kyle Hendricks, while the Rangers are likely to start lefty Andrew Heaney in their next matchup.