Cubs’ Spring Training Roster Trimmed to 53

Some players dream of playing in the bigs, and other have to continue working to attain the dream.

Being cut is just another part of the game.

Mar 7, 2013; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs second baseman

(left) throws to first after forcing out Chicago White Sox third baseman

(25) to complete the double play in the ninth inning at HoHoKam Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

On Monday, the Cubs’ released their latest set of cuts which limited the spring roster to 53 players. They include:

• RHP Alberto Cabrera
• RHP Trey McNutt
• LHP Brooks Raley (optioned to AAA)
• IF Logan Watkins (optioned to AAA)
• RHP Robert Whitenack (optioned to AA)
• RHP Nick Struck

While being cut may be seen as a negative in many people’s eyes, these players are pretty significant Cubs prospects and will likely be heard from in the future. There was simply too much talent ahead of them and they’re quite aware they were at spring training to gain experience, not for a shot at Wrigley just yet.

You could argue that Raley and Cabrera had a backdoor chance at cracking the big league roster, but they both showed poor performances in Cactus league action.

Logan Watkins is actually being promoted by being cut, as he spent his 2012 season in AA. We wish him the best of luck in Iowa this season.

Having them in spring training camp is just another stage in their development. Being sent to minor league camp is far from a knock against them.

More cuts will be coming in the next few days. Stay tuned for details as they break.