Cubs’ spring training non-roster invites just got way more exciting thanks to this pitcher

On the eve of Chicago Cubs pitchers and catchers reporting to spring training, the Cubs have officially announced their list of non-roster invites. Oftentimes, this is a compilation of the minor-league signings that were reported throughout the offseason but never announced by the team. The Cubs have struck gold with these moves in the past, the most recent example happening last year with Brad Keller.

Chances are the Cubs may still have another move or two up their sleeve before Opening Day, but the current list of non-roster invites certainly has some familiar names.

Cubs spring training non-roster invite includes pitching prospect fans have been waiting for

Pitchers (8)

• Jeff Brigham
• Grant Kipp
• Corbin Martin
• Connor Noland
• Connor Schultz
• Colin Snider
• Trent Thornton
• Jaxon Wiggins

A fun wrinkle of the non-roster pitcher invites is that there isn't a single left-handed option. In recent years, the Cubs have been thinking when it comes to left-handed relievers, but that may not be the case in 2026. At least, not at the major league level with Caleb Thielbar and Hoby Milner a part of the mix.

Many eyes will be on Jaxon Wiggins, the Cubs' top pitching prospect. Wiggins could very well serve in a similar role on the big league pitching staff that Cade Horton had last season.

Martin, Thornton, and Snider are all candidates who could sneak into the final spot in the Cubs' bullpen. A spot that will also have Ben Brown and Javier Assad as part of the competition.

Infielders (4)

• Scott Kingery
• Jonathon Long
• B.J. Murray
• Jefferson Rojas

In terms of making the Opening Day roster, Long may have the strongest chance. Tyler Austin has a split contract, so he is capable of being optioned if he doesn't impress during spring training.

Kingery will be utility depth for the Cubs at Triple-A Iowa. Rojas is one of the Cubs' top prospects, but he isn't knocking on the door of being ready. Murray was once an exciting power prospect in the Cubs' system, but he has yet to solve the Triple-A level.

Outfielders (3)

• Brett Bateman
• Dylan Carlson
• Chas McCormick

Carlson and McCormick will compete for the final spot on the big league bench. Carlos, due to being a switch-hitter, could be on the inside track to winning the job. It's also possible the Cubs add another established option to the competition.

Catchers (3)

• Ariel Armas
• Christian Bethancourt
• Casey Opitz

The Cubs are set at catcher on the major league roster with Carson Kelly, Miguel Amaya, and Moises Ballesteros. Bethancourt will be the up-and-down catcher for the Cubs this season.