In a surprising twist, Craig Counsell announced that Tyler Austin, the seasoned right-handed slugger, underwent knee surgery this week and will be sidelined for several months. Austin, who inked a one-year deal with the Cubs in the offseason, was a strong contender for the Opening Day roster. With his absence, the spring training competition just got a whole lot more intriguing.
Austin made a name for himself with impressive power numbers during his six-year stint in Japan's NPB, following his MLB tenure with teams like the Yankees, Twins, Giants, and Brewers. He was expected to serve as a backup at first base, taking on left-handed pitchers and occasionally filling in for Ian Happ in left field.
Although Austin hadn't secured a bench spot, Counsell noted that he was favored to make the Opening Day roster over others competing for a bench role. Now, recovering from patellar tendon debridement, Austin's absence paves the way for another veteran to seize the opportunity this spring.
Counsell addressed the media about the implications of Austin's absence, emphasizing the chance it presents for others: “The ripple effect, it’s an opportunity for others essentially, yeah. [Austin] I would say had an inside track, so it’s an option that’s off the table right now, so it opens up opportunity for others.”
With the Cubs planning to carry 13 position players on their 26-man roster, here's a look at the projected starting lineup:
- Michael Busch
- Nico Hoerner
- Alex Bregman
- Seiya Suzuki
- Pete Crow-Armstrong
- Ian Happ
- Carson Kelly
- Moises Ballesteros
- Dansby Swanson
This leaves two bench spots up for grabs, with Miguel Amaya and Matt Shaw already penciled in. Now that Austin is out, the battle for the Opening Day roster intensifies among:
- Michael Conforto
- Dylan Carlson
- Chas McCormick
- Kevin Alcantara
- Justin Dean
- Owen Miller
- Scott Kingery
Michael Conforto emerges as a potential frontrunner, offering a much-needed left-handed bat off the bench. Meanwhile, Dylan Carlson and Chas McCormick could be competing head-to-head for the fourth outfielder spot, given their center field experience.
The Cubs likely want Kevin Alcantara to gain more experience in Triple-A, so he’s expected to start the year in Iowa. Justin Dean also serves as a depth option in the minors.
Scott Kingery’s fit seems uncertain, but Owen Miller could have a shot thanks to his defensive versatility, having played all over the infield and even some outfield. Plus, his previous connection with Counsell in Milwaukee might play in his favor.
Who will claim the final two bench spots on the Opening Day roster? Right now, Conforto and Carlson seem like strong contenders.