How many of the current Chicago Cubs will be with the team in 2022?

In the midst of our shared Magical Misery Tour it is interesting to speculate on the future of the Chicago Cubs – because right now that’s all we fans have. I have spent some time considering the players on the current team and thinking about who we might see on next year’s Opening Day roster.

Let’s start in the infield. At first base, Frank Schwindel has demonstrated significant power in his limited at-bats so far. With Patrick Wisdom playing some first also, and before we see who the Cubs pursue in the offseason, I think Schwindel has a fifty-fifty chance of making next year’s Cubs. On the year, he’s impressed with a wholly unsustainable .370/.408/.739 line – but regardless, there’s been a lot to like here.

Everything at second base hinges on Nick Madrigal’s return from injury. If he’s healthy, the job is his. That would mean David Bote, signed through 2024, is once again relegated to a backup role and will see time at other positions as the Cubs’ primary utility man.

Looking at shortstop, despite how much as I like Sergio Alcantra, with his slashing bat and everything else he brings to the table, this is Nico Hoerner’s job to lose. I have been impressed with Andrew Romine, he looks to be serviceable and in good shape for his mid-thirties, but at this point he’s playing out the sunset of his career.

At the hot corner, I think Patrick Wisdom is a lock to make the 2022 Cubs at this point. He might do that at third, left field or at first, but he’ll be there. That being said, Matt Duffy is no slouch as a third baseman either. I believe Duffy has a good chance to make the team because of his versatility. It’s conceivable that we could see Duffy play at any infield position – likely off the bench.