Chicago Cubs host 39 pitchers in early weeks of camp

As the Chicago Cubs look to repeat their World Series success, finding depth will be a focus. With all the pitchers at camp, quality depth is possible.

"“No sir, you never have enough pitching. Just when you think you have it, it is usually the time when you suddenly find yourself with pitchers who can never start a game.”"

The words spoken by Hall of Fame manager Bill McKechnie in January 1940 ring true even today. Thankfully, for the Chicago Cubs, depth was not an issue in its pitching staff. It was performance quality, not injuries, that forced pitching moves last year. Outside of Hector Rondon, John Lackey and Pedro Strop, the staff was healthy.

First of all, there is no reason to think 2017 will be any different (knock on wood). Regardless, general manager Jed Hoyer and president of baseball operations Theo Epstein acquired pitching all winter long. When camp opened on February 14, 39 pitchers reported. That should keep pitching coach Chris Bosio and all the catchers busy.

Many of the slots on the team are inked in pen; however, there are several questions that must be answered. How many starting pitchers will be in the rotation? Who fills the final spots? Will the team carry extra pitching due to the versatility of the rest of the team? Here are the candidates.