Cubs Invite 25 Non-Roster Players to Big League Camp
The Cubs announced Friday that they have invited 25 non-roster players to major league spring training in Mesa. Camp officially opens when pitchers and catchers report on February 17, then things really get going when the team has its first full-squad workout four days later. A revised 28-game spring schedule opens against the Padres on March 1.
The following 13 pitchers have been invited to major league camp: right-handed pitchers Joe Biagini, James Bourque, Juan Gámez, Jake Jewell, Trevor Megill, Shelby Miller, Tommy Nance, and Michael Rucker, as well as left-handed pitchers Rex Brothers, Brendon Little, Adam Morgan, DJ Snelten and Jerry Vasto.
Infielders Abiatal Avelino, Matt Duffy, Trent Giambrone, Alfonso Rivas, and Patrick Wisdom all received invites. The four outfielders joining them are Michael Hermosillo, Nick Martini, Ian Miller, and Rafael Ortega. Rounding out the group are catchers Taylor Gushue, P.J. Higgins, and José Lobatón.
Not many of these players have a legitimate shot to make the Opening Day roster, but Ian Miller made a very good case for himself last season and will sure be going all-out again to prove himself. Duffy is a possibility as a bench infield bat, Giambrone tore the cover off the ball last spring, and Shelby Miller could make a rotation that is anything but set.