Chicago Cubs News: Roster is set as Cubs are ready to defend title

Jul, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs left fielder Matt Szczur (20) hits an RBI single during the sixth inning against the Texas Rangers at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Jul, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs left fielder Matt Szczur (20) hits an RBI single during the sixth inning against the Texas Rangers at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Cubs made some of their final roster cuts, surprising most of Cubs nation with the last one. Tommy La Stella and Matt Szczur will both be on the Opening Day roster as Brian Duensing will start the year on the DL.

The Chicago Cubs have finalized their 25-man roster, although “final” may be a little bit of a stretch. The big mystery of Tommy La Stella and Matt Szczur was answered with a “yes”. Both made the Opening Day roster, as the Cubs will go in with one less pitcher as Brian Duensing will start the year on the DL.

The one place the Cubs were confident in was the starting rotation. Even with letting Jason Hammel walk, they felt they had enough pieces in place to move forward. With Brett Anderson stepping into the final spot, how good can the Cubs rotation be? As good or better than last year? Don’t be surprised if that’s the case.

The Cubs offense had no issues scoring runs on Wednesday afternoon. Although John Lackey struggled to keep the A’s off of the board himself. Kyle Schwarber hit two home runs out of the leadoff spot, but Lackey struggled even though the Cubs were able to pick up a 15-11 win over the Athletics.

We’ve got these stories and others you may have missed:

‘Cubs set 25-man roster; La Stella and Szczur safe’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Don’t sleep on the Cubs rotation’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs offense on display in Sloan Park finale’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Does Duensing to the DL mean something more? – Cubbies Crib

‘Russell declares his back ‘100%’, hopes to be ready’ – Cubbies Crib

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