MESA, Ariz. – As the Chicago Cubs finalize their roster ahead of Opening Day, front office activity remains focused on potential external additions. Despite a successful 2023 season that saw the team win 92 games and advance in the postseason, General Manager Jed Hoyer indicated Sunday the club is actively monitoring the market, a landscape currently in flux with players navigating waivers and opt-out clauses. The Cubs are evaluating opportunities to bolster both their infield depth and bullpen, a testament to their commitment to continuous improvement.
The current situation isn’t driven by perceived deficiencies, but rather by the unusual number of players available and the potential to capitalize on opportunities. “There’s just a lot of movement around the league,” Hoyer said. “We’re trying to figure that out. We still have some balls in the air.” This proactive approach reflects a strategy of maintaining flexibility as they head into what many expect to be a competitive season in the National League.
The Cubs’ relatively stable core, coupled with the continuity provided by modern manager Craig Counsell’s coaching staff, has created a solid foundation. When pitchers and catchers reported to Arizona in February, the roster already had few glaring holes. However, the spring training period has been anything but typical, presenting unique challenges in preparation for the regular season. The team entered Sunday’s final Cactus League game with 38 players still on the roster, signaling a deliberate, opportunistic approach to roster construction.
Navigating a Disrupted Spring Training
The road to Opening Day hasn’t been without its hurdles. The World Baseball Classic, while a celebrated event, temporarily sidelined key players like Alex Bregman, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Daniel Palencia, disrupting team routines. Adding to the complexity, record-breaking heat in the Phoenix area forced a shift to more Cactus League night games, further altering the usual spring training schedule.
“You just want guys to get their work in and be healthy,” Hoyer explained. “It’s been unusual this year with the WBC. You talk to people around the game, it feels different. It feels less cohesive. We’re not the only team dealing with that. But it’s nice to have the full complement of guys back.” Despite these challenges, the Cubs are focused on ensuring players are prepared for the demands of a 162-game season.
Suzuki’s Recovery and Roster Implications
A significant concern heading into the season is the status of outfielder Seiya Suzuki. Suzuki, who suffered a sprained posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during the World Baseball Classic while playing for Japan, has been ruled out for Opening Day. Manager Craig Counsell indicated Suzuki’s travel plans to Chicago are uncertain, with the possibility of remaining in Arizona for continued treatment and rehabilitation.
Hoyer emphasized a cautious approach to Suzuki’s return, stating, “Things are moving in the right direction, but it’s a long season, and we don’t want to do anything for a couple days early that would hurt us later on.” With Suzuki sidelined, Matt Shaw is expected to see increased playing time in right field, potentially shifting his role from a super-utility player to a more regular contributor. This situation further underscores the need for a versatile infielder on the bench.
Pitching Rotation and Bullpen Decisions
The Cubs are currently planning to open the season with a five-man starting rotation consisting of Matthew Boyd, Cade Horton, Shota Imanaga, Edward Cabrera, and Jameson Taillon. While a six-man rotation was considered, Counsell indicated it’s not the immediate plan, citing the schedule’s built-in off days. Colin Rea, a reliable swingman last season, is guaranteed a spot on the pitching staff with a $6.5 million salary.
The roles of Ben Brown and Javier Assad remain less certain. Both pitchers have minor-league options, leaving the Cubs to decide whether they will begin the season in the Triple-A rotation or contribute from the Wrigley Field bullpen. The organization has long debated whether Brown’s high-velocity fastball is best suited for a high-leverage relief role or if he should be developed as a starting pitcher. “We’ve got five healthy starters,” Counsell said. “You got to create some choices.”
Minor League Developments and Roster Moves
Several minor league players have been informed of their assignments. Jonathon Long, the organization’s 2025 minor-league player of the year, will begin the season in Iowa as a backup to first baseman Michael Busch. Counsell stated the message to Long was to prioritize playing time, emphasizing his proximity to the major leagues. Relievers Corbin Martin and Collin Snider have been assigned to minor league camp, with Martin’s contract including an upward mobility clause that could lead to a trade if another team offers him a major league opportunity. Chas McCormick, dealing with a shoulder issue, has been informed he will not make the team but is expected to remain in the organization with the Triple-A club.
First-round pick Ethan Conrad will face a delayed start to his minor league season due to a back injury. Cubs director of player development Jason Kanzler estimates Conrad will be sidelined for approximately a month. Despite the setback, Kanzler remains optimistic about Conrad’s potential, describing his tools as “loud” and aligning with the team’s expectations when they drafted him.
The Cubs will continue to evaluate their roster during the final two exhibition games against the New York Yankees at Sloan Park before announcing their official Opening Day lineup. The front office remains prepared to act if the right opportunity presents itself, demonstrating a commitment to building a championship-caliber team.
The Cubs’ official roster announcement is expected in the coming days. Stay tuned to time.news for continued coverage of the team’s preparations for the 2026 season.
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