Adbert Alzolay Leads 8 Cuts from Cubs Camp, Spring Roster Now at 44
The Cubs announced Tuesday that they have assigned eight players to minor league camp and added right-handed pitcher Michael Rucker to MLB camp as a non-roster invitee. Rucker was recently returned to the organization after being selected by the Orioles in the Rule 5 Draft last December.
It's a tough pill to swallow, but at the end of the day, I know I gave it my all and can sleep easier knowing that. Thank you @Orioles for taking a shot on me in the Rule 5, and for an unforgettable first big league camp! Experiences and relationships that will not be forgotten!
— Michael Rucker (@mikeruck27) March 7, 2020
Right-handed pitchers Adbert Alzolay and Colin Rea have been optioned to Triple-A Iowa, along with shortstop Zack Short. Catcher Miguel Amaya, who just turned 21 on Monday, has been optioned to Double-A Tennessee.
Four non-roster invitees have been assigned to minor league camp: infielders Carlos Asuaje, Trent Giambrone — who leads the Cubs with a .458 average this spring — and Corban Joseph; and outfielder Noel Cuevas.
Alzolay being sent down doesn’t come as much of a surprise given the work he still needs to do, though many felt he’d be able to lock down a role as a righty reliever. With Alec Mills and Tyler Chatwood figuring to hold that spot down, however, the Cubs can have Alzolay continue to work as a starter in the minors.
These moves put the spring roster at 44 players, including 26 pitchers (7 non-roster invitees), four catchers (2 NRIs), eight infielders (2 NRIs) and six outfielders (1 NRI). Only 18 more to trim by the time camp closes in a couple weeks.
