Cubs have Owen Ayers among emergency options waiting in the wings for playoff roster

While the Chicago Cubs are still several days away from finalizing their playoff roster, the end of the Triple-A season may have provided some clues of potential emergency options the Cubs could consider in the event of an injury.

Playoff teams have a taxi squad that travels with them throughout the playoffs, and while these players aren't a part of a team's roster, the idea is that the Cubs have them at the ready just in case the unexpected happens. Along those lines, the Cubs have a number of players with them after the Iowa Cubs ended their season on Sunday, and one player is someone who should have a larger role for the team next season.

Let's address Owen Ayers being with the team first. Given that Moises Ballesteros was traded to the Los Angeles Angels and Carson Kelly is a free agent this offseason, it would seem that Ayers is in a position to be a meaningful contributor on the roster next season.

Along those lines, while Kelly is still with the team, it makes sense for Ayers to be with the team, trying to soak up as much knowledge from the veteran catcher as possible before he departs. In the event that the Cubs need an emergency catcher for a playoff game, the guess is they would turn to the veteran Austin Wynns before Ayers.

It would also seem that James Triantos is in similar position to Ayers. Though, his status could also be tied to the recovery of Alex Bregman's eye. If there's a scenario where Bregman does land on the IL, Triantos is the obvious candidate to replace him on the roster.

Cubs' end-of-season tax squad could hint at who is vying for a final playoff roster spot

As for potential spots tied to the playoff roster, Kevin Alcantara or Justin Dean could certainly make the case for the final spot on bench. It's a role that Dean previously mastered with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Not only does Dean offer speed, but he has the capability of playing all three outfield spots.

Depending on the status of Edward Cabrera, it would seem that both Tyler Ferguson and Gavin Hollowell could be considered for a potential bullpen role during the playoffs. Cabrera has struggled since his move to the bullpen, and if the Cubs seek a more established relief option, it would seem that Hollowell may be the best candidate to replace him, considering he was moving toward Craig Counsell's circle of trust before his injury.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow