invitations present a significant opportunity for players who aren’t yet on the Cubs’ 40-man roster but are looking to make an impact in the organization.

As spring training approaches, these non-roster players will be working hard to make their mark, with their performance during workouts and games playing a crucial role in whether they secure a spot on the major league roster. The Cubs know that they will need contributions this season from players who might not yet be household names, and this spring training offers the perfect platform for those individuals to prove themselves.

With several of the Cubs’ top prospects in the mix, there’s a sense of anticipation around how these young players will perform under pressure. As the team gears up for the season, the battle for roster spots will be intense, and Cubs fans will be eagerly watching as these players compete for a chance to wear the blue and red come Opening Day.

Position Breakdown: Pitchers, Catchers, Infielders, and Outfielders

The Cubs have invited a diverse group of players to spring training, including pitchers, catchers, infielders, and outfielders. Each of these players brings something unique to the table, and their performances over the next few weeks will determine how they factor into the Cubs’ plans for 2026.

Pitchers: 8 Players with an Eye on the Bullpen

Pitching remains one of the Cubs’ top priorities as they prepare for the season, and eight pitchers have received invites to spring training. These players will be fighting for roles on the Cubs’ staff, with several battling for spots in the bullpen.

1. Jeff Brigham: With prior experience in major league bullpens, Brigham will be looking to prove his value as a reliable reliever.

2. Grant Kipp: Known for his explosive fastball, Kipp will need to refine his control if he’s to break into the Cubs’ bullpen this season.

3. Corbin Martin: As one of the more intriguing names on the list, Martin has the potential to develop into a key contributor if he can continue to improve his consistency.

4. Connor Noland: A young arm with a bright future, Noland is looking to prove that he belongs at the major league level.

5. Connor Schultz: With a solid track record in the minors, Schultz will be aiming to continue his development and earn a spot with the Cubs.

6. Collin Snider: Known for his velocity, Snider could be a valuable addition to the bullpen if he can harness his stuff and avoid walks.

7. Trent Thornton: With big-league experience, Thornton will be looking to solidify his role as a reliable option out of the pen.

8. Jaxon Wiggins: A top prospect in the Cubs’ system, Wiggins is one of the most exciting names on this list. His performance in spring training could set him up for a breakthrough season.

The Cubs are looking for reliable arms to bolster their bullpen, and any one of these pitchers could find themselves in a key role with the team if they impress during spring training.

Catchers: 3 Players Battling for Depth

While the Cubs are set at the starting catcher position with Willson Contreras, having depth behind the plate is crucial, and three catchers have been invited to compete for backup roles.

1. Ariel Armas: Known for his solid defensive skills, Armas will need to prove he can contribute offensively as well if he wants a shot at a backup catcher role.

2. Christian Bethancourt: A seasoned veteran with experience handling a major league pitching staff, Bethancourt offers valuable depth for the Cubs’ catching corps.

3. Casey Optiz: A strong defensive catcher, Optiz will be looking to prove he can hit at the major league level and provide depth in the Cubs’ organization.

With Contreras holding down the starting job, these three catchers will be fighting for limited spots on the Cubs’ roster. The competition could be tight, and the best player will need to demonstrate they can handle both the defensive and offensive demands of the position.

Infielders: 4 Players Seeking Versatility and Depth

The Cubs are looking to build versatility in their infield, and four players have been invited to spring training to compete for depth roles in the middle infield and on the corners.

1. Scott Kingery: A multi-position player with big-league experience, Kingery’s ability to play several positions could make him a valuable addition to the Cubs’ roster.

2. Jonathon Long: A promising prospect with a strong bat, Long will need to show he can handle big-league pitching to earn a spot with the Cubs.

3. B.J. Murray: A player with plenty of upside, Murray has the potential to become a key contributor if he can refine his skills.

4. Jefferson Rojas: One of the Cubs’ top prospects, Rojas is a talented infielder with excellent defensive abilities. He will be a player to watch as he looks to make an impression during spring training.

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These four infielders will be competing for a spot on the Cubs’ bench, and their ability to provide flexibility will be crucial. Rojas, in particular, is a top prospect who could factor into the Cubs’ long-term plans, making him a player to keep an eye on.

Outfielders: 3 Players Fighting for the Fourth Spot

The Cubs are solid in the outfield with three established starters, but they are still in search of a fourth outfielder to provide depth. Three players have received invites to compete for this role.

1. Brett Bateman: Bateman brings speed and on-base ability to the table, and if he can show he can contribute at the major league level, he could be a useful depth piece.

2. Dylan Carlson: A former first-round pick of the St. Louis Cardinals, Carlson is a well-rounded player who can play all three outfield positions. He’s one of the favorites to make the roster, and his ability to perform in spring training will be crucial.

3. Chas McCormick: A player with big-league experience, McCormick has shown flashes of excellence when healthy. If he can stay injury-free, he could be a key contributor as a fourth outfielder for the Cubs.

Carlson and McCormick are the leading candidates to make the opening-day roster, but Bateman will also be looking to prove he can fill a valuable role. The competition for the fourth outfield spot is sure to be fierce, and it will be interesting to see who emerges as the top candidate.

A Look Ahead: Spring Training as a Crucial Opportunity

With so much talent and potential in this group of non-roster invitees, the Cubs’ spring training will be one to watch. For players like Wiggins, Rojas, Carlson, and McCormick, this is their chance to secure a place on the roster and potentially make a significant impact during the season.

The Cubs are still in a rebuilding phase, but with a strong mix of veterans and exciting young prospects, the team is positioning itself for a successful future. As spring training progresses, Cubs fans will be eagerly watching to see who rises to the occasion and makes their mark on the organization.

With the first formal workout for pitchers and catchers already scheduled for Wednesday at the team’s complex in Mesa, Arizona, and the first full-squad workout set for next Monday, there’s no time to waste. The competition is just beginning, and the Cubs’ spring training promises to be filled with exciting storylines and intense competition. Stay tuned, because the race for a spot on the 2026 Cubs roster is on!