As the Chicago Cubs gear up for the start of spring training, the team has officially released its list of non-roster invitees-a group that often flies under the radar but can end up playing a key role as the season unfolds. Just last year, Brad Keller came out of this very pool and made a meaningful impact. Could lightning strike again in 2026?

Let’s break down the names to know, the battles to watch, and the prospects who could turn heads in Mesa.

Pitchers: Youth, Depth, and a Notable Absence

Invitees: Jeff Brigham, Grant Kipp, Corbin Martin, Connor Noland, Connor Schultz, Colin Snider, Trent Thornton, Jaxon Wiggins

The Cubs are bringing eight arms to camp as non-roster invitees-and not one of them throws from the left side. That’s a bit of a surprise given how much the organization has leaned into lefty bullpen options in recent seasons. But with Caleb Thielbar and Hoby Milner already in the mix at the big league level, the front office may feel it has that side of the mound covered.

The headliner here is Jaxon Wiggins, the Cubs’ top pitching prospect. Wiggins, a former first-round pick with electric stuff, will be watched closely this spring.

While he’s not expected to break camp with the team, he could follow a similar path to Cade Horton, who last season made the leap from prospect to contributor faster than expected. Wiggins has the kind of upside that could force the issue if he shows he’s ready.

Meanwhile, Corbin Martin, Trent Thornton, and Colin Snider are all in the thick of what’s shaping up to be a wide-open battle for the final bullpen spot. That competition also includes Ben Brown and Javier Assad, so the margin for error will be razor-thin. These are the types of spring training battles that can come down to the final days in Arizona.

Infielders: A Mix of Depth and Potential

Invitees: Scott Kingery, Jonathon Long, B.J. Murray, Jefferson Rojas

Among the infielders, Jonathon Long may have the clearest path to the Opening Day roster. With Tyler Austin on a split contract, the Cubs have flexibility if Long outperforms him in camp. Long’s bat will be the key-if he hits, he could carve out a bench role.

Scott Kingery, once a top prospect in the Phillies system, now profiles more as Triple-A depth. He brings versatility and experience, which could be valuable if injuries strike.

Jefferson Rojas, one of the Cubs’ most promising young infielders, is here for the experience more than anything else. He’s not quite MLB-ready, but this spring is a valuable chance for the 19-year-old to get a taste of big league camp and show the staff what he’s working with.

B.J. Murray is still trying to put it all together at Triple-A.

Once viewed as a potential power bat in the system, he’s yet to fully break through. This spring could be a make-or-break moment for his trajectory.

Outfielders: Bench Spot Up for Grabs

Invitees: Brett Bateman, Dylan Carlson, Chas McCormick

This is where things get interesting. Dylan Carlson and Chas McCormick are both legitimate big-league-caliber players, and they’ll be battling it out for what could be the final outfield spot on the Cubs’ bench.

Carlson, a switch-hitter, might have a slight edge. That versatility is always valuable late in games or when matching up against tough bullpens. But McCormick brings postseason experience and a strong defensive profile, which could keep him in the mix all spring.

Brett Bateman is more of a long-term project. He’s not expected to contend for a roster spot just yet, but spring training is the perfect place to get reps against higher-level competition and show off his development.

There’s also the chance the Cubs add another outfielder into the mix before Opening Day, but for now, Carlson and McCormick headline the competition.

Catchers: Set at the Top, One to Watch Below

Invitees: (Names not listed in original article, but includes Christian Bethancourt)

The Cubs are in a good spot behind the plate heading into 2026. Carson Kelly, Miguel Amaya, and Moises Ballesteros form a solid trio at the top of the depth chart, giving the team both experience and upside.

Christian Bethancourt is expected to serve as the up-and-down catcher this season-a veteran presence who can step in if needed and help guide a young pitching staff at Triple-A. He’s not likely to break camp with the big league club unless something unexpected happens, but having a steady hand like Bethancourt in reserve is a smart move for a team with postseason aspirations.

Final Thoughts

The non-roster invite list might not generate the same buzz as a big free-agent signing, but it’s often where key contributors emerge. Whether it’s a young arm like Jaxon Wiggins flashing future ace potential or a veteran like Dylan Carlson carving out a role, these are the names worth watching as spring training gets underway.

The Cubs have a history of finding value in these invites-and if recent years are any indication, someone from this group could end up playing a meaningful role when the games start to count.