Predicting the Cubs roster moves for Daniel Palencia's return and Gabriel Arias' arrival

Ahead of their series against the Seattle Mariners over the weekend, there's likely two roster moves that will take place on Friday. Craig Counsell has already confirmed that Daniel Palencia will be reinstated from the 60-day IL, and utility infielder Gabriel Arias will likely be added to active roster.

The Cubs claimed Arias off waivers from the New York Mets on Wednesday, and created space for him on the 40-man roster by transferring Phil Maton to the 60-day IL. Spending most of his career with the Cleveland Guardians, most of Arias' career has been a disappointment. That said, he's proven capable with the glove, and that's just about all the Cubs can ask for.

As for who Arias will be replacing on the roster, there's really only two options. Kevin Alcantara was recalled from Triple-A Iowa earlier this week, and Owen Miller also arrived as an immediate infield depth option on the bench. Between the two, Miller almost certainly won't last on the 40-man roster until October. With Arias' arrival, Miller is no longer needed and the expectation is that he will be the one designated for assignment.

Daniel Palencia's return could create a Cubs' bullpen shuffle

Palencia's return is a little more complicated. Palencia was moved off the 40-man roster earlier this week when he was transferred to the 60-day IL as a procedural measure. The Cubs will need to clear a space for him on the 40-man roster, as well as open up a spot for him

The easiest way for the Cubs to bring Palencia back would be to designate Caleb Thielbar for assignment. That could clear the space needed for Palencia, and Thielbar will become less important in the Cubs' bullpen once Hoby Milner returns. Milner is nearing the end of his minor-league rehab assignment, and likely will be back with the Cubs within the next week.

If not Thielbar, perhaps the Cubs transfer Gavin Hollowell to the 60-day IL, clearing the space for Palencia on the 40-man roster. Hollowell's recovery has been slowed, so that would give the Cubs an easy out if they don't want to part with any additional bullpen depth at the moment. From there, even though he deserves to remain on this pitching staff, the Cubs could option Javier Assad to Triple-A Iowa, considering he has minor-league options remaining.

With September Call-Ups around the corner, the Cubs likely will have moving parts across the roster during the weeks ahead.

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