Chicago Cubs bubble roster projections: Who are the last 3 in, last 3 out?

Feb 26, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs infielder Edwin Rios against the Los Angeles
Feb 26, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs infielder Edwin Rios against the Los Angeles / Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
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Chicago Cubs bubble roster, last 3 in - 1. Patrick Wisdom

Patrick Wisdom's future with the Chicago Cubs may come down to his production in 2023. He needs to play more efficient defense, but he makes the cut on the main roster because of his ability to hit for power. Where Christopher Morel is also a utility man, Wisdom is primarily a third baseman who can fill in for first base duties when necessary. He will also need to cut down on his strikeouts this coming season and learn to hit for more contact. The Cubs failed to sign a bonafide third baseman this past winter, so Wisdom gets the nod by default.

Wisdom was the worst defender on the Cubs last season. Looking at third base specifically, his .948 fielding percentage was well below league average, and his -12 runs prevented and -15 outs above average only made matters worse for the Cubs. With such an emphasis on defense this year, this won't fly. He will have to make critical adjustments, but most importantly, keep swatting home runs and cut down on strikeouts. Otherwise, he's on the hot seat and may be one of the first sent down, as others are waiting in the wings that can play 3B if needed.