Just when you thought the Cubs' roster was set in stone, a series of unexpected moves has thrown everything into question. But here's where it gets controversial... The addition of veteran outfielder Michael Conforto and the injury to Tyler Austin have suddenly made the team's lineup decisions far more intriguing. Let's break it down.
The Cubs entered spring training with minimal roster uncertainties, perhaps only a bullpen spot up for grabs. However, the recent signing of Conforto to a minor-league deal and Austin's knee surgery—which will sideline him for months—have reshuffled the deck. These developments raise questions that don't have straightforward answers, especially regarding the team's first base and designated hitter (DH) positions.
And this is the part most people miss... Austin was brought in to fill the Justin Turner role as a right-handed first baseman and DH, but with him out, the Cubs are left scrambling. Conforto, a left-handed batter, joins Dylan Carlson and Chas McCormick as non-roster veteran outfielders, none of whom have major-league experience at first base. So, who steps up?
Manager Craig Counsell has made it clear that Michael Busch, who finished 12th in MLB in OPS last season, is the everyday first baseman. But if Busch gets injured, the likely replacement is prospect Jonathan Long, who has yet to debut in the majors. Interestingly, Long withdrew from the World Baseball Classic due to a left elbow sprain, adding another layer of uncertainty. For emergency situations, Miguel Amaya, Moises Ballesteros, and even Ian Happ have minor-league experience at first base.
Now, let's talk about the DH spot. The Cubs seem committed to Ballesteros as the primary DH, especially against right-handed pitchers, with Matt Shaw likely taking over against lefties. However, here’s where opinions start to diverge... With Conforto in the mix, could the Cubs opt to start him at DH and send Ballesteros to the minors? Ballesteros, who arrived late to spring training due to visa issues, hasn’t appeared in a game yet, while Conforto, a former All-Star with a proven track record, could be a high-reward option if he regains his form.
Conforto, who turns 33 this weekend, was a standout with the Mets, hitting 33 home runs and 92 RBIs in 2019. After missing the 2022 season due to shoulder surgery and struggling with the Dodgers last year, he’s a low-risk, high-reward signing. The question is, will he accept a Triple-A assignment to prove himself, or does he need major-league at-bats to rediscover his groove? We’ll find out soon.
Meanwhile, Carlson is off to a strong spring start (5-for-11), but his .210 average over the past three seasons raises doubts. Justin Dean, a waiver pickup with just 2 major-league at-bats, brings speed (239 stolen bases in the minors) and center field experience, making him a potential bench player. With Austin out, the Cubs could carry two of these spare outfielders, plus Ballesteros.
But here's the real debate... In the bullpen, Ryan Rolison, a left-hander claimed off waivers, has impressed Counsell with his adjustments. However, Gavin Hollowell’s 8 strikeouts in 3 innings and Ethan Roberts’ surprising velocity jump (averaging 95.3 mph on his sinker) can’t be ignored. All three have minor-league options, so the Cubs have flexibility. But who deserves the spot?
As the Cubs navigate these decisions, one thing is clear: the roster is far from settled. What do you think? Should the Cubs prioritize Conforto’s experience or stick with Ballesteros’ potential? And who should claim that bullpen spot? Let us know in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
