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

Chicago Cubs second baseman Zach McKinstry (6) smiles after hitting a 3-run home run in the sixth
Chicago Cubs second baseman Zach McKinstry (6) smiles after hitting a 3-run home run in the sixth / Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY
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Apr 28, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Ethan Roberts (21) reacts after
Apr 28, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Ethan Roberts (21) reacts after / Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

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

Admittedly, this is more of a formality than an indictment of Ethan Roberts. Roberts' season ended after only 9 appearances out of the bullpen last season due to an elbow injury. Robert underwent Tommy John Surgery and it would seem that the second half of the season would be an optimistic target for when Roberts could return to action. Though, even then, it would seem that Cubs would prefer for Roberts to find his footing with Triple-A Iowa before returning to the Major League level.

It seems inevitable that the Cubs will place Roberts on the 60-Day IL once the season starts and that will move him from the 40-man roster. Roberts posted an 8.22 ERA prior to this injury last season and given the signing of Brad Boxberger and the health of Adbert Alzolay, the Cubs likely have their fill of right-handed relievers in the bullpen.