Injuries Affect Tokyo Series Roster Decisions for Cubs
The Chicago Cubs have received clarity on second baseman Nico Hoerner’s injury timeline, but the team’s top prospect, Matt Shaw, remains a question mark. As a result, the Cubs’ Tokyo Series roster decisions will be affected by the duo’s injuries.
Shaw’s Status Uncertain
Shaw, the Cubs’ top prospect, was initially favored to win the third base job, but his oblique injury has forced the team to take a cautious approach. Manager Craig Counsell has stated that nothing is off the table for Shaw, but his first spring-training game is likely to be on Sunday. However, the team must decide if the at-bats available over the next couple of weeks will be enough to make them comfortable with putting him on the 40-man roster for his major-league debut in the Tokyo Series.
Hoerner’s Absence
Hoerner is ruled out for the Tokyo Series but is on track to play in the domestic opener. His absence means the Cubs will need to find alternative options for second base. Utility players Jon Berti, Vidal Brujan, and Nicky Lopez (non-roster invitee) can fill the void, as well as Rule 5 draft pick Gage Workman, who can also play third base.
Tokyo Series Roster Decisions
The Tokyo Series has special rules that allow teams to maintain a larger roster. In addition to the 26-man active roster, teams can fill spots 27 to 29 with inactive players. This allows the Cubs to avoid putting Hoerner on the 10-day IL, ensuring he’s eligible for Opening Day, without using an active roster spot.
Alcantara’s Strong Start
Outfield prospect Kevin Alcantara has made a strong impression in the Cactus League, boasting a 1.038 OPS. His increased strength, which he estimates has improved his swing, has led to a tighter swing path, allowing him to let the pitch travel farther before making a swing decision.
Wicks’ Second Start
Left-hander Jordan Wicks threw 2⅔ innings in his second Cactus League start, focusing on landing his secondary pitches in the strike zone. Despite allowing four hits and two runs, Wicks is pleased with his performance, saying, "Spring training is weird. You can’t put a whole lot of stock in the results one way or another. And for me, it’s just getting the pitches to where I want them to be. And I felt like it was a good day today."
Conclusion
The Cubs’ Tokyo Series roster decisions will be influenced by the injuries to Hoerner and Shaw. The team must weigh the at-bats available to Shaw and decide if he’s ready for his major-league debut. The special rules of the Tokyo Series will allow the Cubs to maintain flexibility in their roster decisions, ensuring Hoerner’s availability for Opening Day.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the status of Matt Shaw’s injury?
Shaw’s oblique injury is still being managed, and his first spring-training game is likely to be on Sunday. - What are the Cubs’ options at second base with Nico Hoerner’s absence?
The Cubs have utility players Jon Berti, Vidal Brujan, and Nicky Lopez (non-roster invitee), as well as Rule 5 draft pick Gage Workman, who can play third base as well. - How will the Cubs’ Tokyo Series roster decisions be affected by the injuries to Hoerner and Shaw?
The team will need to weigh the at-bats available to Shaw and decide if he’s ready for his major-league debut. The special rules of the Tokyo Series will allow the Cubs to maintain flexibility in their roster decisions, ensuring Hoerner’s availability for Opening Day.
