The Chicago Cubs have revealed their Opening Day roster for the 2026 season, and while some moves were expected due to injuries, the final lineup still holds surprises. In a twist from recent years, three non-roster invitees have secured spots, showcasing the depth and competition within the team.
As the Cubs gear up for the season, they're mostly healthy, but they'll miss right fielder Seiya Suzuki until at least April 1. Suzuki's knee injury during the World Baseball Classic opened up a slot, and Tyler Austin's knee surgery added to the roster shuffle. This set the stage for Michael Conforto, Dylan Carlson, and Scott Kingery to make the team.
Who Steps Aside When Suzuki Returns?
Suzuki is on the 10-day injured list, eligible to return on April 1 if all goes well. The immediate thought is that Kingery might be the odd man out when Suzuki is back.
However, Kingery's inclusion is strategic, as the Cubs wanted an extra infielder. With Matt Shaw potentially covering right field, the Cubs need to keep their infield options open.
Carlson, with his center field experience, seems secure as a backup to Pete Crow-Armstrong. Conforto, despite a tough 2025 with the Dodgers, offers a left-handed bat that could be crucial if rookie Moises Ballesteros stumbles. While Kingery appears the likely candidate to be released, surprises are always possible in baseball.
Who Takes Right Field?
The Cubs start their season with a three-game series at home against the Nationals, who are sending three right-handed pitchers to the mound. Conforto, a lefty with experience in right field, seems the logical choice to start. Carlson looks more like a defensive substitute for now, leaving Shaw as another contender for early starts.
Shaw, transitioning to a utility role in his second year, had some shaky moments in right field during spring training. This might make manager Craig Counsell hesitant to start him immediately.
Despite Conforto’s recent struggles, Shaw’s potential upside has fans eager to see him in action. Counsell faces a choice between playing it safe with Conforto or taking a chance on Shaw.
What’s Ben Brown’s Role in the Bullpen?
The final bullpen spot was a surprise, going to Ben Brown. Initially groomed as a starter, Brown shifted to relief pitching just a week before Opening Day. His previous bullpen outings have been mixed, but his talent is undeniable, and the Cubs are eager to utilize his arm.
The question now is how the Cubs will deploy Brown. Will he serve as a one or two-inning reliever, or take on a bulk role, pitching multiple innings if a starter falters?
With Colin Rea as the long man, Brown could be poised for high-leverage situations. Adding a sinker to his repertoire, Brown’s potential as a starter remains, but for now, his bullpen role could become a key asset for Counsell.
As the season unfolds, these roster decisions will be closely watched, with each player’s performance potentially shaping the Cubs' 2026 journey.