Chicago Cubs: Pitching rules the day as 40-man roster is set

The Chicago Cubs locked in their 40-man roster, which featured a few pitchers as well as an unlikely slugger

The Chicago Cubs made some final additions to the 40-man roster as they get a look at what the potential for next season could be as well as protecting key assets from the Rule 5 draft. While not strong on the pitching front in the minors, the Cubs made a few recent additions that they chose to protect, as well as prospects Pierce Johnson and Jeimer Candelario. The evolution of pitching in the minors appears to be one of the last steps of the Cubs rebuild.

Many Cubs’ fans realize the importance that Carlos Villanueva had in his time with the Cubs as a leader, but also in his versatility. Travis Wood was that pitcher this season, and depending on the offseason, Jason Hammel may find himself best suited for the swingman role–if not forced into it depending on the moves the team makes.

The Cubs knew that they had a talented slugger in Dan Vogelbach. Then they acquired Anthony Rizzo the following winter. Now Vogelbach is the next prospect making noise in the minors, but with no place to go. But even with that, the Cubs added him to the 40-man roster, likely to be protected as a possible trade chip down the road.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Cubs add young pitching to the 40-man roster’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Thanksgiving treats from MLB players’ – MLB.com

‘Jason Hammel best suited as the Cubs swingman?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Vogelbach remains part of the plan’ – Cubbies Crib

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