CHICAGO -- This was supposed to be Opening Day around baseball. For the Cubs, they expected to be north in Milwaukee on Thursday at Miller Park, where fans would have flocked to the ballpark to help Chicago feel right at home on the road against the Brewers.

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Instead, players and fans alike are self-isolating at home to help combat the global coronavirus pandemic. While Major League Baseball is using Thursday to air classic games for all 30 clubs as part of an #OpeningDayAtHome event, players both past and present have taken to social media and other platforms to stay connected.

Here are some of Thursday's reactions related to the Cubs.

From Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo, in an essay he wrote for ESPN:
"We're all used to socializing all the time. But right now, we are not. We are at home and it is easy to just sit around and do nothing, but for me, that just doesn't work. My message and biggest piece of advice: Get into some sort of routine, daily, to get you through so you're not just wasting away time. Somehow make the most of this forced downtime.

"We have to keep moving and keep people encouraged. Sports usually does that. Sports brings people together who normally would not even think about conversing or socializing. Not having sports is so strange. But we have to stay connected."

From Cubs pitcher Jon Lester, on Twitter:
"Worst opening day ever, but focused on what’s most important right now and that’s keeping the team safe at home so we can get back to baseball soon. Special thank you to all the healthcare workers on the front lines, looking forward to celebrating y’all upon our return!"

From Cubs Hall of Famer Fergie Jenkins, on Twitter:
"Today is tough day for all of us, players and fans included. Hang in there baseball will be back and better then ever! Stay home, stay safe, & listen to the advice from the professionals. Be thankful of nurses/doctors on the front lines. See everyone at the park soon!"

From Cubs shortstop Javier Báez:

From Cubs outfielder Steven Souza Jr.:

"#openingday2020 is very special to me, we've come a long way from season ending surgery and I can't wait to step back on that field with this team!"

From Cubs reliever Casey Sadler:

"I've yet to make an opening day roster, it's the next goal I aspire to achieve in my career and I look forward to the day I can say I did just that. For now that dream is on hold, and my thoughts are with everyone being affected by this pandemic."