We’ve got five Chicago Cubs you should keep an eye on in Spring Training. And all these new additions, including Xavier Cedeno, could spell the end for Tyler Chatwood. This and more in today’s Morning Marquee.
The Chicago Cubs Spring Training opens up with a lot of eyes on it. It’s very much a similar team from last year. But many want to see if players are past their injuries, and who might be the ‘next man up’ if something goes wrong. Of course, Kris Bryant and Yu Darvish are on the list, but who else makes it? Our Alex Patt delves in and gives us a few more to keep an eye on.
We already know that the rotation is set, barring any setbacks. And Mike Montgomery is likely to be the sixth starter, not Tyler Chatwood. So that relegates him to the bullpen, right? Eh, maybe not. This has been a focus of the Cubs offseason, and each new signing spells terrible news for Chatwood. He has no options. Unless he accepts a minor league assignment (unlikely), the Cubs would have to release him and eat a BUNCH of money. Can he have an impressive enough spring and save his job, whatever it might be?
Another potential roadblock for Chatwood is the addition of Xavier Cedeno. After splitting time with the Brewers and White Sox, he comes in with solid numbers. A lefty with a strong strikeout per nine, he could fill the void left by Justin Wilson. But at the least, it’s another pitcher in a group of eight or nine battling for just a few spots. Somebody is going to get left out.
Cubs on Twitter
Tyler Chatwood's 2018 season with the #Cubs did not go according to plan... but heading into 2019, he is looking forward to his shot at redemption.
— Cubs Talk (@NBCSCubs) February 15, 2019
FULL STORY: https://t.co/xwsjmvL6Xo pic.twitter.com/ApihuCJsvm
Joe Maddon’s response to PECOTA projections that predict #Cubs will finish last in NL Central with 80-82 record: “Who knows why or how they arrive at that stuff? It really means nothing. You got to go out and play the game. You got to compete. I have zero interest in (that).”
— Patrick Mooney (@PJ_Mooney) February 14, 2019
These and other stories you might have missed:
‘Five players to watch this spring‘ – Cubbies Crib
‘Bullpen signings signal doom for Chatwood’ – Cubbies Crib
‘Cubs add Cedeno to the mix in bullpen’ – Cubbies Crib
‘Cubs Hottovy and Iapoce take modern approaches’ – Cubbies Crib
‘Farquhar wears protective cap after brain surgery‘ – ESPN
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