Latest Chicago Cubs injury may delay an important Opening Day roster decision

The Chicago Cubs played their final spring training game on Tuesday, and the reveal of the team's Opening Day roster shouldn't be far behind.

Most of the roster decisions have already been figured out as Brad Keller, as expected, has been informed that he made the Cubs' Opening Day roster. The injury to Tyson Miller opens a spot for Keller on the 26-man roster, but a corresponding move on the 40-man roster will still be needed before Thursday.

There was a growing expectation that Keller's spot on the 40-man roster may be opened by the move the Cubs make for the final spot on their bench. In a recent weeks, it was decision that was down to either Gage Workman or Vidal Bruján. However, in recent days, it's become clear that Workman has all but earned the spot.

In not making the Opening Day roster, Bruján would need to be designated for assignment as the former top prospect is out of minor-league options. However, the Cubs may be able to delay that decision. Among the information the Cubs had for reporters on Tuesday was that Bruján is currently dealing with a right elbow issue. That would also explain why Bruján hasn't played in a game since Saturday for the Cubs.

The silver lining with Vidal Bruján's injury.

If Bruján's injury is serious to the point an IL trip is needed, that allow the Cubs to punt a decision until a later point during the season. In theory, Bruján could open the season with the Cubs on IL while Workman has his spot on the Major League roster. The Cubs, then, wouldn’t have to make a 40-man roster decision on either player until Bruján is healthy. It’s an ideal scenario considering Workman is subject to the Rule 5 rules all season. Of course, having Bruján on IL also gives the Cubs a crutch in the event Workman proves not to be ready for the Major Leagues during the early parts of the season. At which point, the Cubs would either need to work out a trade with the Detroit Tigers or send him back if they no longer desire to keep him on the 26-man roster.