Cubs MLB Roster

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40-Man Roster Info

40 players are on the MLB RESERVE LIST (roster is full), plus two players are on the 60-DAY IL 

26 players on MLB RESERVE LIST are ACTIVE, ten players are on OPTIONAL ASSIGNMENT to minors, two players are on the 15-DAY IL, and two players are on the 10-DAY IL

Last updated 4-17-2024
 
* bats or throws left
# bats both

PITCHERS: 13
Yency Almonte
Adbert Alzolay 
Javier Assad
Colten Brewer
Ben Brown
Kyle Hendricks
* Shota Imanaga
Mark Leiter Jr
Hector Neris 
* Drew Smyly
Keegan Thompson
Hayden Wesneski 
* Jordan Wicks

CATCHERS: 2
Miguel Amaya
Yan Gomes

INFIELDERS: 7
* Michael Busch 
Garrett Cooper
Nico Hoerner
Nick Madrigal
* Miles Mastrobuoni
Christopher Morel
Dansby Swanson

OUTFIELDERS: 4
* Cody Bellinger 
# Ian Happ
Seiya Suzuki
* Mike Tauchman 

OPTIONED: 10 
Kevin Alcantara, OF 
Michael Arias, P 
Pete Crow-Armstrong, OF 
Jose Cuas, P 
Brennen Davis, OF 
Porter Hodge, P 
* Luke Little, P 
* Matt Mervis, 1B 
Daniel Palencia, P 
Luis Vazquez, INF 

10-DAY IL: 2 
Seiya Suzuki, OF
Patrick Wisdom, INF 

15-DAY IL: 2
* Justin Steele, P  
Jameson Taillon, P 

60-DAY IL: 2 
Caleb Kilian, P 
Julian Merryweather, P
 




Minor League Rosters
Rule 5 Draft 
Minor League Free-Agents

Major League Cubs Lineup Takes Opener

Submitted by Rob G. on

The Cubs put up a four spot in the first and make it stand for the 6-3 series opening win over the Houston Astros. 

Why the Cubs Won:  Most of the regulars were back in the lineup sans Derrek Lee who took another day off as the bulging disc issue flared up again.They worked Mike Hampton over in the first inning to the tune of 35 pitches. On pitch 25, with the bases loaded, Reed Johnson lined the ball deep to the gap in left field that a diving Michael Bourn just missed and the ball rolled all the way to the wall. It had the makings of a possible inside-the-parker, but Johnson settled with the stand-up triple and the Cubs took the quick 3-0 lead. A passed ball by Gold Glover Ivan Rodriguez during Micah Hoffpauir's 10-pitch at-bat scored Johnson and the Cubs never looked back.  Another passed ball scored Johnson again in the 6th and an Aramis home run in the 7th accounted for the other runs.

Rich Harden bounced back nicely from his last outing to lower his ERA to 4.83, which would have been even better if he hadn't come out for the 8th inning where he gave up a single, a 2-run homer to Lance Berkman and another single before finally being removed. The strikeouts weren't there - just four on the night - but he seemed to get stronger as the night went on retiring 10 in a row at one point including a few fastballs in the 94-95 range before the gas ran out in the 8th.

Carlos Marmol looks like he may be finding his groove again, needing just 10 pitches (8 for strikes) to clean up Harden's mess and Kevin Gregg just needed 12 (9 for strikes) to get the three-up, three-down save.

Armchair Managing:  Rich Harden and his fragile arm were up to 92 pitches through seven innings. Not something I would normally worry about, but with a five run lead, having an at-bat in the top of the 8th and it being Rich Harden, thought Lou might might want to be quick with the hook.

Death Pool: You still have to think Bobby Scales will get sent down by Friday to make room for the starter that night, but with Bradley's suspension about to start and Lee hurting, maybe they'll DL Lee to keep a position player around a little longer.

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Cubs Recap

Comments

Submitted by Ryno on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:37 am

Funny that the only regular that played Tuesday is the one that could have used the day off. And also, I'm glad to see Gregg finally settling into his role. That's what he's all about: A boring 9th inning.

Submitted by The Real Neal on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:01 am

This was sort of weird. I missed the first innning waiting for the bar to turn on the game, so I checked on my phone and it was 3-0, then it was 4-0. But when the game came on, which I believe was the top or bottom of the 2nd, the score was 3-0. So I was totally puzzled. The game description on my phone seemed reasonable, but how could a TV station have the score wrong for that long? I don't know when they caught up because some whiny Mets or Phillies fan made them change it back to their POS game, and when that was over I think the score was 6-1.

Submitted by Ryno on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:07 am

Yeah, TRN, I think the Houston feed had the score wrong for a while. Parachatters speculated that they were in denial about that 4th run. Submitted by Ryno on Wed, 05/06/2009 - 11:12pm. And a BB RBI on a pitch that looked like it was headed for the upper deck. Literally. God, this isn't good baseball at all I should go to bed. The pitch is at 0:30 on this reel. And you think the Cub's bullpen is struggling...

Submitted by Rob Richardson on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:12 am

"with Bradley's suspension about to start" Have the results of the hearing been released?

Submitted by The E-Man on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:07 am

"Why the Cubs Won" - Two Words: HarDen I have not seen any appeal decision, personally. Is there a "snowball's chance in hell", that Gathright will be the one sent along. I'm into Scales over that dude, at least.

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Submitted by VirginiaPhil on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:31 pm

DeRosa played mostly second, a fair amount of right field, some left while Soriano was injured and a handful of games at third. Because of DeRosa's other duties, Fontenot was able to get 243 at bats, less than half a season's worth. Who will get DeRosa's at-bats this year? Fontenot will get most of them. The rest will be divided among Bradley, Hoffpauir, Soriano (unless he gets injured again) and Miles. Cedeno didn't do much last year except take up a roster spot. Miles takes over his duties and also much of Fontenot's backup role. If Gathright gets at-bats--and he hasn't so far--it will be because Fukudome tails off again.

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Submitted by VirginiaPhil on Fri, 05/08/2009 - 05:41 am

Cedeno had an incredible shrinking role with the Cubs last season after a torrid April. April and May, 97 PAs. June, 45 PAs (in which he batted .214). July and August, 48 PAs. Then in September, with the Cubs solidly in first place (by 4.5 games on 9/1, 7.5 on 9/14), Cedeno got a lot of starts. Lou made a big point of wanting to rest Theriot in particular before the playoffs. Replacing someone who had 48 PAs in those two key months would not be a full-time job for Miles. Fontenot's main job was to play second when DeRosa was playing outfield. For 221 of DeRosa's 593 PAs, he (DeRosa) was playing an outfield position. That job of backing up an infielder/outfielder doesn't exist this year. The Cubs' infielders in 2009 play the infield exclusively, so they can do the job with one fewer body. Daryle Ward had 119 plate appearances in 2008. Hoffpauir already has 54 this season. At this rate he will have over 300 PAs. Some of Hoffpauir's at bats and many of Bradley's would have gone to DeRosa last season when he played right field. Did Miles take Fontenot's role? No, that role doesn't really exist any more. Did Hoffpauir take Ward's role? No, Hoffpauir's role is much larger. Did Bradley take Edmond's role? No, or he would be playing center, with Fukudome in right. Did Gathright take DeRosa's role? Not at all. Did he take Cedeno's role? Partly, in the sense that he can pinch-run when a base needs to be stolen.

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Submitted by WISCGRAD on Fri, 05/08/2009 - 05:44 am

You rambled for quite a bit, but I will pull out one point: "That job of backing up an infielder/outfielder doesn't exist this year." Correct. That's the problem. Because, as you say, "The Cubs' infielders in 2009 play the infield exclusively" we have less versatility and one less player capable of playing infield on this roster than we did last year. This isn't brain surgery. When Ramirez went down for a few days, all 3 of those guys were starting - Theriot, Miles, Fontenot. This mean NO remaining backups for the infield. Whether it's a starter like DeRosa or a backup - the team would benefit from someone who can play both infield and outfield on the roster, rather than someone like Gathright who can only do OF.

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Submitted by big_lowitzki on Fri, 05/08/2009 - 05:20 pm

the three remaining real outfielders (not including Hoffpauir) are all starting. Huh? First of all, I think that it is pretty clear that the Cubs do see Hoffpauir as a backup corner outfielder. Not a good one, but they will use him in the outfield. But sure, if you go ahead and not count one of the backup outfielders, then the Cubs do have one less backup. That means that the Cubs have a backup outfielder. Scales is also an outfielder, having spent fairly significant time in the OF over his minor league career. So the Cubs have three back up outfielders - Johnson, Hoffpauir, and Scales. They now have two backup infielders - Miles and Scales. Got it? Of course, Freel doesn't steal bases any more, so a slow team gets slower. Well... as I have long said, Gathright is/was fast, but not very good at using his speed. He was a mediocre base runner and a pretty lousy outfielder. He won't be missed. At all.

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Submitted by Jeff_Pico on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:52 am

Yeah did this guy not see Samardzija pitch this year? Sure he put up great numbers in that stretch last year but since about the end of August 08 his major league results have been pretty horrible. And how bad of a personality problem does Luis Vizcaino have not to already be in the Washington bullpen?

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Submitted by Ryno on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:23 am

Okay, they are very similar managers, I can agree with that, but I think one of the bigger differences is if Lou were on pace to lose nearly 100+ games for a season, he wouldn't take the field day after day half asleep and mumble his way through interviews. I believe he brings a fire to the team. You all can scoff at that if you want, but I believe it's true. Plus, Lou isn't quite the "hands-off" manager Dusty was.

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Submitted by mannytrillo on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:22 am

Looks like Manny is going to say that he must have tested positive by taking a doctor prescribed medication. No word yet on that medication, but maybe it was just a Jim Miller situation. It will be interesting to see this play out. All i know is that ARod is probably thrilled as when he comes back Friday the national attention won't be on him nowhere as much now. And Selena Roberts can't be happy that Manny will be taking headlines away from her book. Oh well...

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Submitted by The Real Neal on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:46 am

My personal feeling on Manny tends to believe that he didn't intentionally take anything. I wonder if it's true, and assuming Manny had the sense to give the doctor the list of banned substances if Manny will sue the doctor. One more excuse for the insurance industry to jack up malpractice insurance is just what we need.

Submitted by artskoe on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:18 am

Good to see the I-Cubs, T-Cubs, P-Cubs and D-Cubs being groomed for the fire sale at the end of the season or the Peavy trade in July. At least there is an action plan by Hendry. Good show! Pressure is on Rothschild. Talent seems to be there (or was there) but he either doesn't communicate well or it's an outright rebellion. I predict this as his last season even if they win it all. And I just don't like these 2 game series. There were a lot of them in '06, if I recall, and the extra travel took its toll. Off topic: Does anyone remember the "Musical Scoreboard" after games on WGNam in the 60"s? I'm trying to remember if it was Jack Quinlan who hosted that post game show...thanks. (yes I'm that old)

Submitted by Rob G. on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:37 pm

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=ys-ramirezsuspension050709&prov=y… The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the substance is supposed to boost sex drive. It is not Viagra, but a substance that treats the cause rather providing a temporary boost in sexual performance, the source said. and his statement... Recently I saw a physician for a personal health issue. He gave me a medication, not a steroid, which he thought was okay to give me. Unfortunately, the medication was banned under our drug policy. Under the policy that mistake is now my responsibility. I have been advised not to say anything more for now. I do want to say one other thing; I’ve taken and passed about 15 drug tests over the past five seasons. I guess it can be tough to keep up with the groupies. The article does say he was tested twice, once in spring training and another one more recently. Shouldn't that be 100 days? Back by July 3rd...it'll be like making a trade at the deadline.

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Submitted by WISCGRAD on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:23 pm

This is also why he can claim he never tested positive for steroids. The levels were too high, but that is not a violation itself. The investigation also never demonstrated steroid use - just use of HCG, which is a banned substance (although in conjunction with steroid use is pretty much the only reason someone would take it). He was actually banned under the "just cause" provision of section 8.G.2 of the joint drug agreement. That allows players to be penalized for use, sale, or distribution of banned substances. So the elevated test in spring training led to the investigation, but in theory if MLB just randomly found a box of evidence linking him to buying, selling, distributing, or taking this drug, the result would have been the same.

Submitted by The Joe on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:42 pm

Eat a dick if it's already been discussed, but Viscaino has been signed by the Indians. I'm guessing we're paying most of his salary, which sucks. Are they our new reject collectors? Wood has been shit so far...I want him to succeed, but I'd also hate it for him to be too awesome away from the Cubs.

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Submitted by crunch on Thu, 05/07/2009 - 05:58 pm

interesting read...some real cheap shots in there, though. i'm not a fan of trot nixon the player or the person, but he's been worked hard for everything he's gotten (or failed to get). sure, i can't say if he's used or not, but geez...the guy showed up on the "fake" list that was leaked and hasn't lived it down. some other names are thrown around a little casually there, too, imo. btw...i get the point that the questions that surround the era and how we rumor-monger our own "who's on what..or not" without knowing for sure is part of the narrative...still...

Recent comments

  • Childersb3 (view)

    I wanted Almonte gone last week, but that was before Merryweather went down and Little got demoted. Almonte in his last 5 appearances has gone 4.1 IP with no ER or Runs. NO hits, 3 BBs and 8 SO. He did hit 96 with his 2S FB in AZ on Tues.
    I don't see Jed waiving him when we have injuries all over and guys with options that can be sent down.
    I probably won't like the move Jed makes, but he can't play the "let's hope no one wants his 1.7mil remaining deal and we can hide him in Iowa" card.
    That's why I think the current Bullpen stays as is and Wicks goes to Iowa.
    I don't like that, but that's the fix I see.
    We'll find out soon enough!!!

  • TarzanJoeWallis (view)

    Teheran minor league deal is done, per MLB.

  • TarzanJoeWallis (view)

    Based on Phil’s sound analysis it sounds like a no brainer for Almonte to be placed on waivers as today’s roster move. We shall see.

  • Arizona Phil (view)

    I suspect Counsell/Hottovy will use the piggy-back extensively, with Taillon and Hendricks pitching as the "pig" (and with a very short leash) and some combo of Wicks, Brown, and Wesneski (whichever two do not start) as the "backers."  

    Keep in mind that Keegan Thompson has a minor league option available, and if Yency Almonte is not outrighted by 4/26 he cannot be sent to the minors without his consent after that date. Almonte is out of minor league options, so I am talking about him getting outrighted to the minors if he is not claimed off waivers, and if he is claimed off waivers, the Cubs save the pro-rated portion of his $1.9M salary, which helps lower the Cubs 2024 AAV.

  • Dolorous Jon Lester (view)

    Totally agree. The 26 man roster very rarely consists of the 13 best position players and 13 best pitchers.

  • Dolorous Jon Lester (view)

    Based on what Jed has done in the past, I’d say the plan is to

    -give Hendricks another few starts
    -give Taillon some runway ot get his season underway

    -Mix and match in the bullpen and see what sticks

    Jed usually doesn’t do a whole lot of waiver wire plays in-season, at least early in the season. He only reallly did that after he blew up the rosters in 21 and 22 because they needed bodies (guys like Schwindel, Fargas, etc).

    I think he’s a little handcuffed by a full 40 man in that he can’t really maneuver much with giving anyone showing ability at AAA (R Thompson/ Sanders/ Edwards etc). Brewer has the most tenuous grip there, and we will see what kind of chance he gets. Other than his spot, there isn’t a ton of 40 man wiggle room.

    I’m very curious to see what happens with Brown now that Taillon returns. Bullpen? Wicks to Iowa? 

  • Childersb3 (view)

    Pro teams have to play their "big money" guys if they are healthy and not "locker room" issues.
    The Cubs wanted to deal JHey off well before they bought him out. They just didn't want to pay him to play for someone else for that long. Jed did give him 20+mil to play for LAD last yr.
    Jed might also let Kyle walk at some point this year. Similar scenario to JHey, except Jed thought Kyle was going to be good/solid in '24!!
    You'd think Smyly is in the same book as well. Same with Neris (he's a 1yr vet RP, so he's not really in this convo too much).
    That's ~35mil between those three and those three are going to get opportunities until at least late June) over younger guys even if their performance is "iffy".
    But, Jed is going to play Taillon a lot. They have to try and justify that contract and hope a veteran works out.
    So, Taillon, Imanaga, and Hendricks are locks for the rest of April and probably May.
    Assad, Brown and Wicks handle the last spots until Steele is ready.
    Now, you're question has real merit when Steele comes back. That will interesting if Brown is still good and Hendricks is still bad. But Taillon is entirely safe as long as he's healthy.

    And the bullpen moves were "money" based as well. Smyly has actually been okay. But he hasn't been clearly better than Little. Little had one bad outing. But Smyly makes 9mil. If they needed another RHRP and one of Little and Smyly had to go, it was going to Little. But that doesn't mean Smyly is one of the best 13 arms for the team. 

  • Arizona Phil (view)

    Childersb3: I think there was an issue with Luke Little coming into a game with men on base. He seems to need a "clean" inning to be dominant. So he is a future closer and needs to be used in that role at AAA. Same goes for Michael Arias. He needs to come into a "clean" inning, and is a future closer and needs to be used in that role at AA. Porter Hodge is a more versatile pitcher, a better version of Keegan Thompson (multi-inning RP). But Little, Arias, and Hodge (probably in that order) are the Cubs top three RP prospects (all three are Cubs Top 15 prospects).

  • TarzanJoeWallis (view)

    So, let’s do a little war gaming. Taillon is back for tonight’s game. He pitched two rehab games, just a few innings each, and not especially sharp. Let’s face it, he hasn’t been lights out since the Cubs gave him the big contract. In other words, as flat out bad as Hendricks has been, the chances of Taillon being the savior don’t look exactly promising.

    If Taillon is equally ineffective or perhaps even worse, what’s the next move? Winning teams can often find a way to work around a dud fifth starter - kinda. Two dud starters make things much more difficult.

    I believe the biggest reason for the recent bullpen moves was dissatisfaction with the recent blowing of big leads and the recognition that the bullpen wasn’t all it was thought to be. In other words, they are exploring alternate options and configurations. If similar juggling becomes necessary (even more so than it already is), what kind of reasonable maneuvering do we think could be explored?

  • Childersb3 (view)

    Cubdom needs to prepare themselves for Wicks to be sent to Iowa for Taillon to come up.
    Ben Brown has 4 appearances. Wicks has 4 appearances.
    Ben has 16.1 IP.  Wicks has 17 IP
    Ben was a 1.1 WHIP.  Wicks has a 1.7 WHIP. Wicks does have significantly more SOs. 
    Ben has been better, though.
    I love Wicks. I think he's a fighter and his stuff has improved.
    But, Jed isn't ditching Hendricks just yet. He should. But he won't.
    Hendricks should go to the IL and Taillon-Imanaga-Assad-Wicks-Brown should be the rotation.
    Wont' happen though.

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