Chicago Cubs: Final roster spot a difficult call for Maddon

The Chicago Cubs roster was relatively set entering Spring Training less one or two spots. They’ve left difficult decisions as Neil Ramirez and Matt Szczur are both out of options.

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There are few mysteries left with the

roster as Spring Training nears the end. One is the health of

and his thumb. After sliding headfirst into first base (stop doing this, please), he hasn’t played in over a week, leaving

in the running for a spot–at least temporarily–while Baez stays behind to get some more at-bats.

The biggest decision looking for skipper Joe Maddon is that of Neil Ramirez and Matt Szczur. Each are out of minor league options and would have to be placed on waivers if they don’t make the roster. Chances of either not being claimed would be slim. The team may have to come to terms that one of them is going to be lost after this spring.

“Neil’s pitched really well, and he might actually force us to do something,” manager Joe Maddon said. “But we’re still discussing it. It’s not done yet.” h/t Gordon Wittenmyer, Chicago Sun-Times

Entering the season with one less bench player is something that Maddon could surely manage with the versatility he has on the team. But if Baez isn’t ready, that will eliminate once of the Cubs’ most versatile players. Ben Zobrist looks to be settling in as an everyday second baseman and putting his super-sub days behind him. So this looks to be a trickle down effect with each player and how this will pan out.

After a brilliant rookie season in 2014, Ramirez struggled with injuries last season. Even after returning to the Cubs bullpen he was used sparingly–most likely in order to protect him. His rookie season combined with his talent and this year’s spring numbers make him the frontrunner for that last spot.

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Szczur has been a great role player–ala Sam Fuld–and it seems like he’s been around forever. But the Cubs pitching may need more help than the outfield does. He may just have to be a casualty of the business. The Cubs need the pitching more than a reserve outfielder, and unless he slides through waivers it could be goodbye for Szczur.