It’s time for the Cubs to make major roster moves to finish the season

Who should the Cubs designate for assignment in August?

The list of potential roster moves is lengthy. Currently, Chicago is giving up an active spot on the roster for players that are either not performing well or have no business being in the team’s plans beyond this season. Therefore, they need to cut ties and make room for the guys that have a chance to make an impact moving forward.

Frank Schwindel

After bursting onto the scene last season in the wake of the Anthony Rizzo departure, Frank Schwindel has been a huge disappointment for the team in 2022. Frank “The Tank” is posting an abysmal slash line of .233/.280/.365 with just eight home runs heading into Saturday’s matchup against Miami.

His departure would open the door for a handful of other roster moves which I will get to in a bit but, at this point, there is no reason to trot Schwindel out for any more at-bats. He is a defensive liability that is struggling at the plate.

Rafael Ortega

Rafael Ortega was another late bloomer last season for the Cubs but the upside just is not there. He goes through stretches of being a solid hitter at the top of the lineup but he cannot stay consistent at the plate and is a mess on defense.

The Cubs have a couple of very exciting prospects coming up through the system in Pete Crow-Armstrong and Brennan Davis. Both of those guys will take over in the outfield when they are ready for the big stage. In the meantime, the Cubs should look to part ways with Ortega and give Nelson Velazquez a better look in center field.

Sean Newcomb

The reclamation project has not worked out and Sean Newcomb should be ready to hit the road. After a strong start to his career with the Braves, everything has gone downhill for Newcomb. The Cubs offered a fresh start for the lefty but his short time with the club has been a disaster.

Opponents are hitting .400 against Newcomb with an OPS of 1.090 in 7 1/3 innings since he arrived in Chicago. His 12.27 ERA in over five appearances is not going to cut it.

Mark Leiter Jr. 

Thinking ahead once again, Mark Leiter Jr. should not be a building block of next year’s bullpen. Designating him for assignment and opening a spot on this year’s roster for a young pitcher – whether it be Caleb Kilian, Hayden Wesneski, or someone else – is a must.