Cubs Prepare for Opening Day 2026: Key Roster Moves and Player Updates
MESA, Ariz. – As the Chicago Cubs gear up for the 2026 season, manager Craig Counsell has announced crucial roster decisions following Spring Training. With Seiya Suzuki currently recovering from a right knee injury, maintaining outfield depth has been a top priority. These considerations heavily influenced the final bench selections.
Dylan Carlson Earns Spot on 26-Man Roster
On Tuesday, Counsell announced that outfielder Dylan Carlson, who attended camp as a non-roster invitee, will be part of the 26-man roster to begin the season. The Cubs selected Carlson’s contract after an 8-3 loss to the Yankees at Sloan Park. To make room on the 40-man roster, Tyler Austin was placed on the 60-day injured list.
Outfield Depth and Prospect Movement
Outfield prospect Kevin Alcántara (ranked No. 4 on Pipeline’s Top 30 list for the Cubs) was optioned to Triple-A Iowa. Counsell emphasized the importance of preserving depth, stating, “Both Kevin and [Carlson] had a good camp. We’re trying to preserve some depth here. We have an outfielder down right now, and if you kind of go through it, the next thing that happens would be – without everybody intact – a little bit damaging. So we have some depth now.”
Alcántara will join outfielders Justin Dean and Chas McCormick (non-roster) in Triple-A, providing additional depth for the Major League group.
Cubs’ Outfield Plans and Utility Player Role
The Cubs plan to feature both Carlson and fellow non-roster invitee Michael Conforto in the big league outfield mix to start the season. Super-utility man Matt Shaw will also contribute in right field while Suzuki continues his recovery. With Shaw as the sole backup infielder, veteran Scott Kingery (non-roster) will join the MLB group in Chicago, potentially vying for a spot on the 26-man roster.
Carlson’s Spring Performance
The 27-year-old Carlson, with six seasons of MLB experience with the Cardinals, Rays, and Orioles, had a strong Spring Training. He batted .304 (14-for-46) in 19 games, with three extra-base hits, five RBIs, eight walks, and a .429 on-base percentage, showcasing his versatility in all three outfield positions. “It’s definitely a good feeling being told you’re a part of the group,” Carlson said. “There’s a lot of expectations and a lot of really good ballplayers in that room. So it’s definitely one of those situations where you just feel like you’ve got to be ready for anything, and be ready to go when your opportunity comes.”
Shota Imanaga’s Impressive Spring
One of the most encouraging storylines of Spring Training has been the performance of left-handed pitcher Shota Imanaga. His velocity has increased, and his recent outings have demonstrated significant swing-and-miss potential. Imanaga generated 17 whiffs in five innings against the Yankees and followed that with 25 whiffs in 4 2/3 innings against the Angels.
Over those two starts combined, Imanaga recorded 13 strikeouts against three walks, allowing just three runs over 9 2/3 innings. Counsell noted, “He was excellent [against the Yankees]. His last two outings have been very encouraging. Just the amount of swing and miss he’s getting really makes you take notice. And he’s done it against two good lineups.”
Seiya Suzuki’s Recovery Progress
Suzuki will begin the season on the 10-day injured list but is making steady progress in his rehab. He has incorporated light running into his program (while wearing a modified brace) and will gradually increase the intensity and variety of his movements. He will travel with the team to Chicago and continue his buildup during the first homestand. The Cubs will re-evaluate his progress before their first road trip (April 3-5 at Cleveland).
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