Today the Chicago Cubs started making meaningful cuts from the Spring
roster, and the cut included at least one surprise. Lefty reliever
Scott Maine, once considered the favorite to be the third (if not
fourth) lefty out of the pen, was sent to AAA Iowa where he’ll try to
work his way into a mid-season call-up. Justin Berg, one of the Cubs’
on-again, off-again relievers last year, was also sent to AAA Iowa.
Angel Guzman was officially cut today, but that was known for a long
time. He’s coming off serious shoulder surgery and hopes to be able to
contribute later in the year. Todd Wellemeyer, who has been battling a
hip problem, was reassigned to minor league camp, which suggests the
Cubs do intend on keeping Wellemeyer into the season, albeit not on
the 25-man roster. If he gets healthy and a spot opens up in the
bullpen, he could get a look down the line.
The Spring roster stands at 36.