The Cubs began the season at home on April 5, 2012 against the Washington Nationals and finished the season at home on October 3 against the Houston Astros.

[3][4] The season also marked the first season in the Cubs rebuilding project under Theo Epstein that would break their 108-year World Series drought and lead the Cubs to the 2016 World Series championship.

[5] During the offseason, the Cubs would acquire future All-Star Anthony Rizzo from the San Diego Padres.

[6] During the season, the Cubs would also acquire players that would play important roles during their 2016 World Series season: Travis Wood was acquired via trade from the Cincinnati Reds on December 23, 2011,[7] Albert Almora was drafted on June 4,[8] Jorge Soler was signed as an amateur free agent on June 30,[9] and Kyle Hendricks was acquired via a trade with the Texas Rangers on July 30.

= Batting average; SB = Stolen bases Note: W = Wins; L = Losses; ERA = Earned run average; G = Games pitched; GS = Games started; SV = Saves; IP = Innings pitched; H = Hits allowed; R = Runs allowed; ER = Earned runs allowed; BB = Walks allowed; K = Strikeouts