4 Chicago Cubs players who don't deserve to be on 2023 40-man roster

As pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training next week for the Chicago Cubs, the attention will turn to the 40-man roster as players on the fringe of the roster compete for a spot on the team's Opening Day roster.

The Cubs revealed on Monday that they will have 32 non-roster invites included in their Spring Training roster and there are several players from that list that have a strong chance at making the Opening Day Roster.

Assuming that one or more of those players make the Cubs' Opening Day roster, there will be a need to create space on the team's 40-man roster. There are five players in particular that are currently on the 40-man roster that don't deserve to be.

4 Chicago Cubs players who don't deserve to be on 2023 40-man roster: Zach McKinstry

There is no doubt that the Cubs clearly value the spot that McKinstry has with the team. Despite there seemingly having been several opportunities where the Cubs could have designated McKinstry for assignment, the team opted against the move.

With that in mind, the Cubs now have two players on their roster that serve the same purpose. Miles Mastrobuoni was acquired by the Cubs in a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays last November and the important element to Mastrobuoni's addition is that he has all three of his minor league options remaining. That likely gives him the advantage over McKinstry in regard to staying on the 40-man roster. McKinstry is out of minor-league options and his 78 wRC+ in 171 plate appearances with the Cubs last season does not warrant lengthy consideration.