The Chicago Cubs endured a tumultuous start to their 2024 season as they fell to the Texas Rangers in a 4-3 defeat after 10 intense innings. The game was marred by controversy and injury concerns, leaving the Cubs and their fans hoping for a smoother road ahead.

The opening game showcased ups and downs for the Cubs, with lead changes and unexpected events keeping fans on the edge of their seats. The game began with Christopher Morel, serving as the designated hitter, setting the pace with a leadoff triple in the second inning, followed by a sac fly from Dansby Swanson that brought him home.

Unfortunately, the Cubs' ace pitcher, Justin Steele, could not escape unscathed. After cruising through the Rangers lineup, Steele landed awkwardly while making a fantastic throw in the fifth inning. He was forced to leave the game due to left hamstring tightness, casting doubt on his availability for the near future.

Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed disappointment at the potential loss of Steele, who had been performing exceptionally well. The team expects Steele to undergo an MRI exam and likely be placed on the injured list. Nevertheless, Counsell remained optimistic about the team's pitching depth and their ability to overcome this setback.

As the game progressed, the Cubs managed to take a 2-1 lead in the sixth inning, courtesy of Seiya Suzuki's double and a subsequent RBI double from Cody Bellinger. However, the Rangers quickly tied the game again in the bottom of the inning with a home run from Adolis Garcia off Yency Almonte.

The ninth inning brought an unexpected twist. With two outs, Michael Busch and Nico Hoerner walked, and Miles Mastrobuoni was sent up to bat for Nick Madrigal. Mastrobuoni's bat appeared to make contact with the ball, resulting in a contentious play that was ruled a fair ball by plate umpire Chad Fairchild. The ensuing argument between Fairchild and Rangers catcher Jonah Heim allowed Busch to score from second base.

However, the Cubs' fortune was short-lived as Adbert Alzolay surrendered a home run to Travis Jankowski, giving the Rangers a tie once again. Both teams had ample opportunities to secure the win, but strong pitching from Mark Leiter Jr. and Hector Neris for the Cubs, and strained offense from the Rangers, prevented either side from breaking the game open.

In a disappointing turn of events, the Cubs failed to capitalize on the bases loaded situation in the top of the tenth inning and ultimately succumbed to a walkoff single from Jonah Heim in the bottom of the inning. The defeat left the Cubs realizing there is room for improvement in their performance.

Looking ahead, the Cubs hope for a speedy recovery for Justin Steele and aim to iron out the kinks as they face the Rangers once again on Saturday. Kyle Hendricks will take the mound for the Cubs, while Cody Bradford gets the call for the Rangers.

Despite the rollercoaster start to the season, the Cubs remain confident in their depth and ability to navigate future challenges. They strive to put the controversy and injury concerns of the opener behind them and focus on reclaiming their winning ways.