Category: News
Los Angeles Superintendent Praised By Gavin Newsom Placed On Leave Following FBI Raid
Los Angeles Superintendent Praised By Gavin Newsom Placed On Leave Following FBI Raid
Los Angeles schools were thrown into chaos after the FBI raided the home and office of embattled Superintendent Alberto Carvalho in connection with a widening investigation into a $6 million deal between the nation’s second-largest school system and an AI startup. Days later, the district’s board put him on paid administrative leave (he makes $440,000 a year).
According to federal officials, the agency executed a series of search warrants which included Carvalho’s home – during which they seized Carvalho’s work phone and other devices during Wednesday’s raid, according to district insiders. By Friday, the Board of Education voted unanimously to sideline him. Veteran administrator Andres Chait, the district’s chief of school operations, will step in as interim superintendent.
At the center of the FBI probe is a collapsed ed-tech startup called AllHere, which was given a $6 million LAUSD contract to build an artificial intelligence chatbot named “Ed,” pitched as a revolutionary tool to “democratize education.” Carvalho personally championed the project after arriving in Los Angeles in 2022, touting it at tech conferences as a game-changing way for students and parents to stay connected.
And of course, the bot was bullshit, and AllHere’s founder – Joanna Smith-Griffin, now faces federal fraud charges for allegedly inflating revenues and exaggerating the company’s client base. The criminal case remains unresolved as both sides discuss a possible deal, court records show.
Sources familiar with the investigation say the federal probe appears to have expanded beyond AllHere’s collapse to examine Carvalho’s dealings with Debra Kerr, a consultant who helped connect the startup with school districts. Kerr, a longtime associate of Carvalho dating back to his tenure running Miami-Dade County Public Schools, also had her Florida home searched this week.
District officials insist LAUSD itself does not appear to be a target and say earlier internal reviews found no criminal wrongdoing by Carvalho. But as part of its cooperation with federal authorities, the district has now ordered an additional outside review of contracting decisions made under his leadership.
Carvalho’s paid leave is expected to last at least a month.
From Undocumented Migrant to Immigration Crusader
Carvalho spent 13 years leading Miami-Dade schools, and has been an outspoken advocate for immigrant students, frequently recounting his own story as an undocumented immigrant from Portugal who later became a U.S. citizen.
He’s also had his own rough patches. In 2008, leaked emails suggested an inappropriate relationship with a reporter covering Miami schools – which he denied, though he acknowledged the emails themselves were inappropriate.
In 2018, he famously accepted the top job running New York City’s massive school system – only to dramatically reverse course on live television and remain in Florida.
And of course, California governor Gavin Newsom loves him…
Just weeks ago, Gavin Newsom took a moment out of his State of the State address to make sure everybody knew about all the amazing work LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho was doing.
So it is quite fitting that the FBI is raiding Carvalho’s home today. https://t.co/Jz5SensnL2 pic.twitter.com/awdNKJfb9f
— Kevin Dalton (@TheKevinDalton) February 25, 2026
And in Los Angeles, he has faced criticism from multiple fronts. Within a year of his arrival, he dismantled programs championed by his predecessor, Austin Beutner. Last year, Beutner and several students sued the district, alleging more than $76 million in art and music education funds had been misused.
Tyler Durden
Tue, 03/03/2026 – 19:40
Estrasburgo vence 2-1 a Reims y avanza a semifinal de la Copa de Francia
ESTRASBURGO, Francia (AP) — Estrasburgo avanzó a las semifinales de la Copa de Francia el martes, al imponerse por 2-1 sobre Reims.
Con un final agitado en el Stade de la Meinau, Estrasburgo convirtió dos penales en un lapso de cuatro minutos y luego encajó un gol en el tiempo de descuento, cuando el Reims reaccionaba.
El argentino Joaquín Panichelli abrió el marcador a los 83 minutos con un penal antes de que David Datro Fofana fuera derribado en el área para que el Estrasburgo tuviera otra oportunidad de disparar desde los 11 pasos.
Panichelli ya había salido del campo, así que el paraguayo Julio Enciso convirtió para duplicar la ventaja del equipo local.
Abdoul Ouattara estuvo cerca de poner el 3-0 en el tiempo añadido, cuando estrelló el balón en el travesaño, pero fue el Reims el que marcó el siguiente gol —obra de Patrick Zabi a los 94.
___
Deportes AP: https://apnews.com/hub/deportes
Texas GOP Sen. Cornyn tries to hold his seat while Democrats Crockett, Talarico face off for Senate
DALLAS — Texas Republican Sen. John Cornyn is trying to hold on for a fifth term in Tuesday’s GOP primary, while Democrats will choose whether to send Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett or state Rep. James Talarico to a November general election where the party once again hopes it has a chance.
Texas is one of three states kicking off this year’s midterm elections with primaries that come as the U.S. and Israel are at war with Iran. At least six U.S. service members have been killed in a growing regional confrontation that sent oil and natural gas prices soaring. President Donald Trump, who campaigned on an “America First” agenda and hasn’t sought congressional authorization, faces mounting questions over its rationale and an exit strategy.
Races in North Carolina and Arkansas also mark the first primaries of the 2026 midterms as Democrats look to break the GOP’s hold on Washington and derail Trump.
Cornyn faces a challenge from MAGA favorite Ken Paxton, the Texas attorney general, and U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt in a contest expected to advance to a May runoff. The three Republicans campaigned on their ties to Trump, who has not endorsed in the race.
Crockett and Talarico each argue that they are the stronger general election candidate in a state that backed Trump by almost 14 percentage points in 2024 and where a Democrat hasn’t won a statewide race in over 30 years.
Some voters in Dallas and Williamson counties reported being turned away at polling locations and directed to different voting precincts. Voters previously had been allowed to cast ballots anywhere in their county since 2019. But for this primary, the Republican parties in Dallas and Williamson counties opted against countywide voting. State law says both major parties have to agree to the countywide system for it to be in effect.
Talarico’s campaign said it was “deeply concerned” and called for voting hours to be extended. Crockett was set to hold a news conference on the matter shortly.
Voters also are choosing House candidates using new congressional district boundaries that GOP lawmakers — urged on by Trump — redrew to help elect more Republicans.
Cornyn fights to hold seat
Cornyn hopes to avoid becoming the first Republican senator in Texas history not to be renominated.
His cool relationship with Trump is part of what makes Cornyn vulnerable. He and allied groups have spent at least $64 million in television advertising alone since July to try stabilize his support.
Paxton began campaigning in earnest only last month. He’s made national headlines for filing lawsuits against Democratic initiatives. He remained popular in Texas despite a 2023 impeachment trial on corruption charges, of which he was acquitted, and accusations of marital infidelity by his wife.
All three Republicans have run ads boasting of their coziness with Trump. But Senate GOP leaders, who are backing Cornyn, worry that Paxton’s liabilities would make it harder to defend the seat if he is the nominee — and require significant spending that could be better used elsewhere.
“Republican voters are going to need to decide, do we want to win?” Cornyn told Fox News Channel.
Hunt’s entry into the race in October made it trickier for any primary candidate to win at least 50%, the threshold needed to avoid a May 26 runoff.
Stylistic opposites vie for Democrats’ Senate nomination
Crockett and Talarico have waged a spirited race as Democrats look for their first Senate win in Texas since 1988.
Talarico, a seminarian who often references the Bible, has held rallies across the state including in heavily Republican areas. Crockett has built a national profile for zinger attacks on Republicans and has focused on turning out Black voters in the Dallas and Houston areas.
Tanu Sani, who cast a Democratic ballot in Dallas, said she’d been undecided until recently but opted for Talarico because he “really spoke to me in the way he tries to unify.”
Andrew Kern, another Democratic voter in Texas, explained his support of Talarico similarly, describing “an approach that’s bridging some of the divisiveness.”
Tomas Sanchez, a voter in Dallas County, said he supports Crockett because “she cares about immigrants, she cares about the American people in a way that a lot of the Republicans have proven they haven’t.”
Sanchez said he also opposes Trump’s tariff policies, saying “the government should repay for all that money.”
“All those extra costs have trickled down to the consumer,” he said.
Talarico had outspent Crockett on television advertising by more than four to one as of late February. He got a burst of attention — and campaign contributions — last month from CBS’ decision not to air his interview with late-night host Stephen Colbert, who said the network pulled the interview for fear of angering Trump’s FCC.
Key House primaries
Texas Republicans’ mid-decade redistricting was aimed at helping the GOP pick up Democratic-held seats and maintain its threadbare House majority in Washington. The result matched several Democratic incumbents in primary fights and set up new general election battlegrounds.
In the 34th District, former Rep. Mayra Flores is attempting a comeback. Flores made history in a 2022 special election as the first Republican to win in the Rio Grande Valley in 150 years, but lost her bid for a full term later that year. She faces Eric Flores, a lawyer endorsed by Trump, for the nomination to run against Democratic Rep. Vicente Gonzalez.
In the 23rd District, Rep. Tony Gonzales is considered vulnerable after an alleged affair with a staffer who killed herself. He’s being challenged by gun manufacturer and YouTube influencer Brandon Herrera, who calls himself “the AK guy.” The district includes Uvalde, site of a deadly 2022 shooting at Robb Elementary School.
Republican Rep. Dan Crenshaw is challenged in the 2nd District by state Rep. Steve Toth, who was endorsed by Sen. Ted Cruz.
Former Major League Baseball star Mark Teixeira is running as a Republican to succeed Republican Chip Roy in southwest Texas’ District 21. Roy is running for attorney general.
Democrat Bobby Pulido, a Latin Grammy winner, is running in South Texas’ 15th District against physician Ada Cuellar. The nominee will face two-term Republican Rep. Monica De La Cruz.
In the 33rd District, Democratic Rep. Julie Johnson faces former Rep. Colin Allred, a former NFL linebacker and 2024 Senate nominee. Johnson, a first-term congresswoman, is seen as vulnerable partly because Allred previously represented part of the district, which weaves through the Dallas and Fort Worth areas. He also retains a national fundraising network from his Senate campaign.
Democratic Rep. Al Green also is fighting to stay in office after his Houston-based 9th District was drawn to be lean Republican. Green, 78, is now running in a newly drawn 18th District against Democratic Rep. Christian Menefee, 37, who won a January special election for the current 18th District. The new one includes two-thirds of Green’s old district.
Abbott and Hinojosa seem bound to face off for governor, while Roy seeks Paxton’s office
Republican Gov. Greg Abbott is running for reelection and faces a likely matchup with Democratic state Rep. Gina Hinojosa.
Roy is seeking the GOP nomination for state attorney general, with Paxton running for Senate. Roy has been a prominent member of the conservative Freedom Caucus.
Weissert reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Sara Cline and Jamie Stengle in Dallas and Bill Barrow in Atlanta contributed.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/03/03/texas-senate-election/
Pentagon says 4 US soldiers who died in Iran war were reservists who worked in logistics
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — Four of the six U.S. soldiers killed in the Iran war were identified Tuesday by the Pentagon as members of the Army Reserve from different states who worked in logistics and kept troops supplied with food and equipment.
They died Sunday when a drone hit a command center in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, just a day after the U.S. and Israel launched its military campaign against Iran. Iran responded by launching missiles and drones against Israel and several Gulf Arab states that host U.S. armed forces.
Israel steps up airstrikes in Tehran, as Iran widens its response across the region
Those killed were Capt. Cody Khork, 35, of Winter Haven, Florida; Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Nebraska; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minnesota; and Sgt. Declan Coady, 20, of West Des Moines, lowa, who was posthumously promoted from specialist. No other names were released.
“These men and women all bravely volunteered to defend our country, and their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll said.
All were assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, which provides food, fuel, water and ammunition, transport equipment and supplies.
“Sadly, there will likely be more, before it ends. That’s the way it is,” President Donald Trump said of deaths.
Amor was just a few days away from returning home to her husband and two children when she was killed.
“You don’t go to Kuwait thinking something’s going to happen, and for her to be one of the first – it hurts,” Joey Amor, her husband, said Tuesday.
Amor was an avid gardener who enjoyed making salsa from the peppers and tomatoes in her garden with her son, a senior in high school. She also enjoyed rollerblading and bicycling with her fourth-grade daughter.
“If you needed anything she would just take care of it for you,” Joey Amor said. “She’s helped a lot of people through a lot of dark times, and brought a lot of light to this world.”
Coady’s LinkedIn page said he was a student at Drake University and an information technology specialist with the Army Reserve.
He said he had learned how to “interact with countless different kinds of people from all different backgrounds” through his service.
Coady became an Eagle Scout in 2020, according to a Facebook post from his West Des Moines troop. An Iowa organization that helps homeless children said he made 12 Adirondack chairs for the group.
Nebraska U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts said he and his wife are mourning Tietjens’ death and praying for his family.
“May we always remember and honor the sacrifices made by Noah Tietjens and the Tietjens family,” Ricketts said.
Tietjens was married with a son, according to a Facebook page. A photo online shows the couple with their son wearing a martial arts uniform.
There are several family photos on Facebook pages belonging to Amor and her husband, Joey Amor, including some images with a teen son.
Last November, Joey wrote a post expressing his love for Nicole.
“Even while you are on the other side of the world you found a way to make my birthday special,” he said. “I love you!”
Associated Press writer Rebecca Boone contributed from Boise, Idaho.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/03/03/us-soldiers-killed-iran-war-logistics/
Observadores de UE piden una reforma integral de ley electoral en Honduras
Por MARLON GONZÁLEZ
TEGUCIGALPA (AP) — La Misión de Observación Electoral de la Unión Europea en Honduras instó el martes a las autoridades del país centroamericano a impulsar una reforma integral de la ley electoral con el objetivo de “despolitizar” los órganos encargados de ese proceso, luego de unos cuestionados comicios presidenciales en los que se impuso el conservador Nasry Asfura.
Asfura, del partido Nacional, fue declarado ganador tras un prolongado escrutinio y denuncias de los contrincantes sobre presunto fraude, además de la presión del gobierno del mandatario estadounidense Donald Trump, que expresó su respaldo a Asfura poco antes de la votación del 30 de noviembre.
Los comicios fueron evaluados por 138 observadores de la UE, Canadá y Noruega quienes concluyeron en un informe presentado el martes en la capital hondureña que “no hubo fraude electoral”.
“No ha existido ningún golpe electoral en Honduras”, indicó el representante de esa misión, Francisco Assis.
El eurodiputado comentó que el informe hace 24 recomendaciones y fue entregado a organizaciones de la sociedad civil, el Congreso Nacional y los partidos políticos.
Dijo que en el documento se cuestiona la injerencia de las Fuerzas Armadas y las amenazas de la Fiscalía, así como del entonces presidente del Congreso Nacional, Luis Redondo, de realizar la declaratoria final de las elecciones a través de una comisión permanente. Al respecto, entre esas recomendaciones, llamó al Estado de Honduras a realizar una reforma integral del marco electoral.
“Las reformas… tienen que ver con la despolitización de los órganos ligados y asociados al proceso electoral, esa creo que es la gran reforma que se debe hacer”, acotó.
De igual manera, el informe recomienda el fortalecimiento de la capacidad y la independencia del Consejo Nacional Electoral (CNE) para evitar la injerencia de los partidos políticos y garantizar una administración eficiente, señaló.
Sobre el apoyo expresado por el presidente Trump al entonces candidato Asfura previo a la votación, el informe destaca que el impacto de esas publicaciones “se extendió más allá de los espacios digitales y tuvo el potencial de influir en segmentos más amplios del electorado”.
“Naturalmente que a nosotros no nos gusta que un presidente de otro país en pleno período electoral haga declaraciones como las que hizo el presidente de Estados Unidos. Creo que si lo hubiese hecho con un país europeo tampoco nos habría gustado”, expresó Assis.
“No es bueno que un presidente de un gran país sistemáticamente se pronuncie sobre actos electorales de otros países”, apuntó.
Asfura tomó posesión el 27 de enero y desde entonces ha forjado una estrecha relación con la administración estadounidense. Trump recibió al nuevo líder centroamericano el 8 de febrero en su residencia en Mar-a-Lago en Palm Beach, Florida, y conversaron de comercio e inversión. Asfura figura entre los mandatarios que participarán el sábado en la cumbre de presidentes de Latinoamérica convocada por Trump a celebrarse en Miami.
Hormuz Freeze Sends Brent-Dubai Spread to Multi-Year High
Hormuz Freeze Sends Brent-Dubai Spread to Multi-Year High
By Julianne Geiger of OilPrice,
Brent’s premium to the Middle East’s Dubai benchmark has blown out to its widest level since 2022, confirmation that the global oil market is squarely trading on disruption.
As of Tuesday morning, Brent was trading around $83–$84 per barrel, up more than 7% on the day, while Dubai crude sat near $68, barely moving. The spread between Brent futures and Dubai swaps — known as the Exchange of Futures for Swaps (EFS) — surged above $6 per barrel, compared to less than $2 just last week before the Iran conflict erupted. It is the widest gap in years, according to a Bloomberg analysis.
Brent is the global pricing reference used for much of the world’s seaborne oil trade, while Dubai serves as the key marker for Middle Eastern crude flowing into Asia. When Brent trades at a large premium to Dubai, it signals tightness and risk in Atlantic Basin barrels relative to Gulf-linked supply.
The futures market, where traders buy and sell contracts for oil delivered at a future date, is reacting to risk in real time, pricing in potential shortages, often before physical flows are visibly curtailed.
The catalyst is easily identifiable. Tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has effectively frozen amid Iran’s threats and ongoing military action. Even if the Strait is not formally “closed,” no shipper wants to test how many teeth Iran has to make good on their threats. With crude from the Gulf stranded and freight rates spiking as available tankers thin out, trading in Middle East benchmarks has become patchy and uncertain.
Brent, meanwhile, is absorbing the geopolitical premium.
This widening gap matters. If the Strait remains inactive for weeks rather than days, upstream shut-ins in the region become increasingly likely. Analysts warn that beyond roughly three weeks of disruption, producers may have no choice but to curb output.
The market is debating how long the supply risk will last, and whether $100 oil is a floor rather than a ceiling if Hormuz does not normalize.
Tyler Durden
Tue, 03/03/2026 – 19:15
https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/hormuz-freeze-sends-brent-dubai-spread-multi-year-high
Centro de detención de inmigrantes en Texas suspende visitas por brote de sarampión
EL PASO, Texas, EE.UU. (AP) — Un gran campamento de detención de inmigrantes en Texas suspendió el acceso a visitantes y abogados debido a un brote de sarampión, informó una legisladora el martes.
Hasta el momento, se han presentado 14 casos activos de sarampión en el centro de detención de la base militar de Fort Bliss y 112 personas han sido aisladas, señaló la representante demócrata de El Paso Veronica Escobar, en cuyo distrito se encuentra la instalación, conocida como Camp East Montana. El sitio permanecerá cerrado a visitantes y abogados hasta el 19 o el 20 de marzo.
“Si bien, por un lado, es positivo que el brote de sarampión se esté tomando en serio, por el otro me alarma que una crisis prevenible haya creado condiciones en las que los detenidos solo pueden acceder a sus abogados de manera virtual”, manifestó Escobar en un comunicado.
Hasta el momento, ni el Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas de Estados Unidos ni el Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (ICE y DHS, respectivamente, por sus siglas en inglés) han respondido a las solicitudes de comentarios.
El campamento abrió el año pasado después de que el gobierno de Trump otorgara un contrato de hasta 1.300 millones de dólares a Acquisition Logistics LLC, un contratista de Virginia que nunca había operado una instalación del ICE. Los detenidos han dicho que, en el campamento, un promedio de unas 3.000 personas al día vive en alojamientos ruidosos e insalubres, las enfermedades se propagan con facilidad y dormir es un lujo.
___
Esta historia fue traducida del inglés por un editor de AP con la ayuda de una herramienta de inteligencia artificial generativa.
CIDH pide a Perú proteger a indígenas en aislamiento y “en riesgo de daño irreparable” en Amazonía
LIMA (AP) — La Comisión Interamericana de Derechos Humanos pidió el martes a Perú que adopte medidas necesarias para salvaguardar la vida, integridad personal y salud de un pueblo indígena que vive en situación de aislamiento, pero cuyos derechos están “en riesgo de daño irreparable” en una remota reserva ubicada en la Amazonía.
En un comunicado, la Comisión dijo que otorgó medidas cautelares en beneficio del pueblo indígena Kakataibo que vive en la Reserva Indígena Kakataibo Norte y Sur, creada oficialmente en 2021 y cuyo territorio de poco más de 1.489 kilómetros cuadrados se ubica en las regiones Loreto, Ucayali y Huánuco, todas en la Amazonía.
The Associated Press pidió comentarios al Ministerio de Justicia de Perú, pero no los obtuvo al momento.
De acuerdo a las leyes internacionales a las que Perú está sujeto, el cumplimiento de las medidas debe iniciarse de inmediato.
AIDESEP, la mayor organización indígena amazónica de Perú, ha reportado por años invasiones a la reserva indígena, deforestación por el sembrado de hojas de coca —insumo para fabricar cocaína—, carreteras y pistas de aterrizaje clandestinas para avionetas que usan los narcotraficantes para llevar la droga al exterior. Otra amenaza es la minería ilegal que se ha expandido a varias zonas de la Amazonía.
Perú es el segundo cultivador mundial de hoja de coca, después de Colombia, según datos de la Oficina de las Naciones Unidas contra la Droga y el Delito.
La Comisión indicó que los factores de riesgo se han incrementado, pese a que Perú afirma que instaló algunos puestos de control, patrullajes y coordinaciones con varias entidades estatales para proteger la reserva.
La ley peruana prohíbe el contacto físico con indígenas en aislamiento y el argumento principal es la seguridad de los indígenas porque afirman que sus sistemas inmunológicos son vulnerables a los gérmenes que portan otras personas.
Perú reconoce oficialmente la existencia de 20 pueblos indígenas en situación de aislamiento y otros cinco en situación de contacto inicial, todos en la Amazonía. Además existen ocho reservas establecidas para la protección de estos pueblos.
Chicago Cubs opening day roster projection: Bullpen and bench spots up for grabs
MESA, Ariz. — The Chicago Cubs want to get through spring training as healthy as possible.
For a group that returns the majority of its 92-win squad from last year, the Cubs have the necessary pieces to replicate another playoff season. There aren’t many question marks surrounding the Cubs’ opening-day roster three weeks before they are back in Chicago to begin the season.
But there are a couple of roster battles in camp for the bullpen and bench that are starting to take shape, giving a little clarity on the direction the Cubs could go to put their 26-man roster together. Opening day is on March 26 against the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field.
Starting pitchers (5): LHP Matthew Boyd, RHP Edward Cabrera, RHP Cade Horton, LHP Shota Imanaga, RHP Jameson Taillon
Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga throws during spring training at Sloan Park on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, in Mesa, Ariz. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
The Cubs head into the season with their starting pitching depth in a good place.
Although left-hander Justin Steele won’t be ready for the start of the season, his progression from elbow surgery has him on track to be ready to join the rotation in May or June. The Cubs are thinking big picture, both with the timing of Steele’s return and the depth they wanted to create in the offseason as they look to make a deep run in the postseason.
They enter the season with a good mix of experience and upside, though each pitcher currently part of the rotation has something to prove — whether it’s related to health and durability (Cabrera, Horton and Boyd), a bounce-back performance (Imanaga) or a veteran looking to build upon a strong finish to 2025 (Taillon). If the Cubs experience any injuries, right-handers Ben Brown, Javier Assad and Colin Rea and left-hander Jordan Wicks give them options that can help weather an absence. Top pitching prospect Jaxon Wiggins could impact the team at some point in the second half, too, if he continues to progress at Triple-A Iowa, particularly with his strike-throwing.
Relievers (8): RHP Daniel Palencia, RHP Hunter Harvey, RHP Phil Maton, RHP Colin Rea, LHP Hoby Milner, LHP Caleb Thielbar, RHP Jacob Webb, RHP Ethan Roberts
In the mix: RHP Ben Brown, RHP Javier Assad, LHP Ryan Rolison, RHP Gavin Hollowell, RHP Porter Hodge, RHP Collin Snider
Hunter Harvey pitches live batting practice during spring training at Sloan Park on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, in Mesa, Ariz. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
The Cubs needed to heavily invest in the bullpen during the offseason, with the majority of their key high-leverage arms not returning after last year. It leaves most of their bullpen spots locked in for opening day with Harvey, Maton, Milner, Thielbar, Webb and Palencia, who opens as their closer.
Barring an injury to a starter over the final three weeks of camp, Rea is positioned to be a long reliever to begin the season. That essentially leaves one bullpen spot open. It would make sense if whoever they chose for the last ’pen arm has minor-league options left to give manager Craig Counsell and the Cubs flexibility for their bullpen usage. The Cubs want to maintain their starting pitching depth as much as possible, too, creating a scenario where both Brown and Assad start the year at Triple A to stay stretched out.
Among their true reliever options, Roberts’ stuff has looked good so far this spring with another efficient outing Tuesday. Roberts, like Rolison, Hollowell and Hodge, still has an MiLB option.
Catchers (3): Carson Kelly, Miguel Amaya, Moisés Ballesteros
Chicago Cubs designated hitter Moisés Ballesteros at Wrigley Field on Sept. 25, 2025. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
The only uncertainty involving the catching group centers on Ballesteros.
There is a clear path to regular at-bats for the 22-year-old in a designated hitter role. How much the Cubs want to have Ballesteros on the roster to open the year in a largely hitting-only position rather than continuing to get everyday reps catching at Triple-A Iowa is what they must decide in the coming weeks.
The Cubs don’t want to sacrifice Ballesteros’ development behind the plate, still envisioning him being a big-leaguer there, but it will take time. Ballesteros’ hit tool is undeniable, however. The Cubs clearly believe in Ballesteros’ bat to the point of carrying him on their postseason rosters last year and becoming Counsell’s go-to lefty pinch hitter in the playoffs. If the Cubs want their best possible lineup to open the season, Ballesteros needs to be on the team. Should that happen, the Cubs can give him a weekly start at catcher to help him continue to hone the defensive side of his game while keeping Kelly and Amaya fresh.
Infielders (5): Michael Busch, Nico Hoerner, Dansby Swanson, Alex Bregman, Matt Shaw.
In the mix: Jonathon Long, Scott Kingery
Nico Hoerner throws while warming up during Chicago Cubs spring training at Sloan Park on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, in Mesa, Ariz. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
There isn’t much uncertainty about what the Cubs’ starting infield will look like on a daily basis beyond how Shaw gets worked into the lineup and moved around the field. The Cubs boast one of the best all-around infields in baseball. Their position player group as a whole was extremely healthy in 2025, and the Cubs understand that could be an area of regression. Long, the club’s No. 7 prospect ranked by MLB.com, and Kingery, a non-roster invite, can provide depth as internal options for any in-season injuries. Long has been slowed by a left elbow sprain following a collision at first base and has not appeared in a Cactus League game since Feb. 21.
Outfielders (5): Seiya Suzuki, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Ian Happ, Michael Conforto, Dylan Carlson.
In the mix: Chas McCormick, Justin Dean, Kevin Alcántara
Dylan Carlson stands at the plate during live batting practice during spring training at Sloan Park on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, in Mesa, Ariz. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Tyler Austin’s knee surgery and subsequent months-long recovery opens a bench role beyond the backup outfielder spot the Cubs needed.
A player’s minor-league option status will be a factor in these decisions, Counsell said, which likely means Alcántara and Dean will begin the season at Iowa with both players still holding an option.
It sets up Conforto, Carlson and McCormick — all in camp on NRI minor-league deals — fighting for two roster spots. Conforto’s track record, despite a rough 2025 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, should give him an edge in earning a job. Carlson’s switch-hitting adds versatility, and he’s produced an encouraging start in spring games (7-for-13, two doubles, five walks, three strikeouts). Carlson and McCormick can play all three outfield spots.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/03/03/chicago-cubs-opening-day-roster-projection/
Daily Horoscope for March 04, 2026
General Daily Insight for March 04, 2026
When we add kindness to bravery, we gain opportunities to support each other and ourselves. With confident Venus sextiling innovative Uranus at 11:40 am EST, we can refresh both our routines and our possessions without breaking the bank. That may involve taking some risks! Any consequences shouldn’t be too painful, though, not once the Moon enters Libra to balance things out. We don’t need to overhaul everything, because little shifts can ripple helpfully through our day and steady our mood as we do what’s doable.
Aries
March 21 – April 19
A quiet pause reveals what truly matters. The alignment of Venus (currently in your subtle 12th house) and Uranus (in your motivated 2nd house) encourages you to think about each choice, even minor ones. For example, you don’t have to stress about today’s breakfast or outfit options, but there’s nothing wrong with giving such things a few more seconds of thought than usual. You could discover your new favorite snack or discover some clothes you’d like to donate. In any case, you’ve learned something valuable.
Taurus
April 20 – May 20
Who truly supports your progress right now? With precarious Uranus in your sign and Venus in your 11th House of Associations, their sextile emphasizes the way identity shifts affect your allies. You’ll probably need to explain the motivations behind any recent changes before getting much else done. The right people should appreciate your candor. While sharing major life updates in a group setting requires more tact, it’s also easier than seeking out every acquaintance to share individual messages. Let your community amplify your voice.
Gemini
May 21 – June 20
Self-knowledge grows as you try new things. The Love Goddess, Venus, highlights your 10th House of Incentives with her sextile to awakened Uranus, currently in your 12th House of Transcendence. You’re ready to look beyond this present moment to present your ideas for the future. This may involve having to set aside past ambitions, but it’s all in service of moving forward. Though doubt may creep in, keep reminding yourself that any effort spent on those goals wasn’t wasted. You’re learning what brings real satisfaction!
Cancer
June 21 – July 22
This morning invites a wider point of view. Your 9th House of Learning and your 11th House of Groups are uplifted by today’s Venus-Uranus sextile. This stirs up extra curiosity, particularly related to group projects or outings. Consider inviting some friends over to watch a documentary. You could also enjoy simply asking your pals if they’ve learned anything interesting lately. In turn, sharing something you’ve learned recently should be immensely rewarding. Ask questions, and let the road to the answer inspire you.
Leo
July 23 – August 22
Generosity is crucial. A supportive sextile between Venus and Uranus empowers your intimate 8th house and your hyped-up 10th house. Shifting expectations can’t keep you down! Give others the benefit of the doubt, and they should do the same for you. For instance, someone may owe you money or an apology — they probably just forgot, and aren’t trying to undercut you. You can politely remind them (and potentially set up some sort of payment plan). Turn tough topics into teamwork opportunities!
Virgo
August 23 – September 22
Thoughtful chats forge strong foundations. With independent Venus guiding your 7th House of Partnership and Uranus blessing your 9th House of Exploration, their sextile creates the ideal environment for favorable agreements. When making travel plans, be sure to honor the preferences of everyone sharing the journey as much as possible. Even if you’re stuck at home, you can expand your horizons through genuine discussions with your peers (whether you’re chatting online or in person). The stars are calling you to listen, learn, and share.
Libra
September 23 – October 22
“Blunt” is the best word for the universe’s attitude today — it’s telling it like it is, even if that causes some drama. The Venus-Uranus sextile strikes your sensible 6th house and your delicate 8th house, so be wary of sensitive topics. There’s no need to avoid them entirely, but be aware that they could impact your to-do list. In particular, documentation of a shared resource or reimbursement may shift, so you might have to triple-check some ownership records. If you aren’t sure, check again!
Scorpio
October 23 – November 21
Play can currently nourish surprising progress on real goals. Creative confidence enjoys a tailwind as loving Venus hones your 5th House of Inspiration, so your talent shines without forcing the moment. With unconventional Uranus highlighting your 7th House of Connections, though, someone close may react differently. Fortunately, that contrast can help you refine your ideas. Share a draft with someone who cheers on honest effort. Your courage to try publicly can spark momentum and goodwill. Keep it fun, and show the heart of it!
Sagittarius
November 22 – December 21
You deserve a happy home, now as much as always. Comfort grows as sensual Venus softens your 4th House of Family, and its sextile with Venus in your health-focused 6th house supports simple fixes that restore a smoother base. Look into new ways of doing old chores — this may involve some updated technology or more modern devices. Something as small as changing your laundry detergent could refresh your whole vibe! Comfort at home fuels success in all other parts of life.
Capricorn
December 22 – January 19
You’re making yourself heard, one way or another! A playful twist could make your messages much more memorable. With Venus in your chatty 3rd house sextiling quirky Uranus in your inventive 5th house, there’s no doubt of that. Today may ask you to contact someone over neighborhood situations or investigate other local goings-on. Ask a precise question to confirm understanding before moving ahead. Calm pacing helps tense topics lose their sharp, stubborn edges. Be clear, and let consistency build your reputation.
Aquarius
January 20 – February 18
Values don’t usually change quickly, but today may challenge that. This doesn’t have to be a scary process — not when it’s prompted by an inspirational sextile between Venus in your analytical 2nd house and Uranus in your homeward-bound 4th house. Any updates will probably be due to a renewed sense of inner steadiness and grounded self-worth. You’ve learned what works for you and what doesn’t, and are ready to set aside routines that don’t serve your purposes. Calm steps protect your progress and peace.
Pisces
February 19 – March 20
Pisces, you set the tone with grace. With Venus, planet of love and money, supporting you through her sextile with Uranus, you’ve got cosmic permission to treat yourself extra kindly. As rebellious Uranus energizes conversations in your 3rd House of Communication, you can share a new introduction or update a bio. Don’t let people treat you like a doormat, even if you want them to like you. Setting kind boundaries protects your energy for what matters and invites supportive replies from good friends.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/03/03/daily-horoscope-for-march-04-2026/
