4 Chicago Cubs who could sneak onto the 40-man roster by Opening Day

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Roenis Elias
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4 Chicago Cubs who could sneak onto the 40-man roster by Opening Day - Roenis Elias

Roenis Elias is an exciting candidate to crack the 40-man roster for two reasons. One, he was signed by the Cubs due to the stellar production he harnessed in the Dominican Winter League this winter and simply because the Cubs are short on any other options for left-handed relievers besides Brandon Hughes. Therefore, if his production picks up in spring, where it left off this winter, he could certainly have an inside track to the job.

Elias appeared in MLB action for the first time this season since 2019, when he posted a 3.96 ERA in 50 innings. He hasn't started games since 2018 but did so this winter and looked fantastic. Therefore, his ability to be utilized out of the bullpen as a bulk reliever/spot starter coincides with the depth the front office has emphasized in acquiring this offseason. Time will tell if he breaks camp with the Cubs or heads to Iowa to start the season.

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