Fansided

Each MLB team’s expected call-ups for roster expansion

By Kyle Franzoni

May 11, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Archie Bradley against the Washington Nationals at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
May 11, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Archie Bradley against the Washington Nationals at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 22, 2015; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs infielder Javier Baez (9) at bat during a spring training game against the San Diego Padres at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 22, 2015; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs infielder Javier Baez (9) at bat during a spring training game against the San Diego Padres at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-USA TODAY Sports /

Chicago Cubs

What a difference a year makes. The Chicago Cubs were dead last in the NL Central on August 31, 2014, sitting 15 games below .500. Fast forward a year and the Cubbies are a firm 20 games north of the .500 mark and in control of the final Wild Card slot in the National League. Whether it be the magic of Joe Maddon, the rise of the rookies, or the offseason additions, the Cubs are sniffing the playoffs and all is right in the world.

For his part Maddon has already been clear as to what he’d like in terms of reinforcements in September, telling the Chicago Sun Times, “It’s the speed, the bullpen, the catcher, and to be able to give guys a break in a bad game.” So, basically a little of everything, right?

Like most teams in playoff contention, the Chicago won’t deviate much from the 40-man roster. In terms of relief help the Cubs will likely give a nod to those with some MLB experience, arms like Yoervis Medina. The Cubs will also have Rafael Soriano expected to return to the bullpen, giving them another playoff tested arm.

In the field, Chicago already has a leg up on most teams, carrying three catchers. David Ross should rejoin the team shortly from a family medical leave and Kyle Schwarber can continue to spell behind the plate as needed. However, the Cubs will likely recall some infield depth, adding prospect Javier Baez, Arismendy Alcantara, and perhaps Mike Olt back to the active roster. Of those three, Baez may be the only one that has any playoff implications on the roster, but he’ll have to hit to his potential in order to stay up past September.

The Cubs are in a good position to make some noise in October and with Steve Bartman no longer living in the area, they may be in a position to shock someone.

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