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.

Chicago Cubs: What will the pitchers and catchers look like?

Barring something unimaginable, or an act of God, Willson Contreras will be this team’s starting catcher. The Cubs do need to find an adequate backup at the position, though. Of all the numerous 30-plus year-old backstops we have seen this year, Robinson Chirinos has impressed me the most, but he is 37 years old and one doesn’t know how much longer he will play.

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As we all know, the starting rotation is where the Chicago Cubs need the most help. After Kyle Hendricks I really don’t see anyone who is consistently impressive. Adbert Alzolay still needs work. Zach Davies is a total unknown as to which pitcher we’re going to see when he takes the mound – and given he’s a free agent at year’s end, it seems likely the team lets him walk. Justin Steele may still breakthrough this year, we can hope. Alec Mills is a dependable fill-in starter. After that, quien sabe?

In the bullpen? So many names, so may questions. Rex Brothers, Dan Winkler, Keegan Thompson, Dillon Maples, Brad Wieck, Adam Morgan, Trevor Megill; the names go on and on. Perhaps the one I’m most interested in is Tommy Nance, who was sent down to get more work. Watch this space as there will be plenty of young arms vying for roles next spring.

That’s my take on the current crop. Of course we have no idea who waits in the wings to be snatched up during the offseason. There should be some interesting negotiations in the offing. All I know is the Cubs better grab some solid major league players, beginning with high-quality starting pitchers, before next season rolls around or it’s going to be another long summer.