Chicago Cubs (Image Credits: Imagn)

Chicago Cubs Make Important Roster Decision Right Before Opening Day

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Heena Singh | Last updated Mar 23, 2026 2:39 PM ET

Opening Day is almost here, and the Chicago Cubs are tightening every screw. A dominant 12-0 spring win over the Milwaukee Brewers set the tone. However, behind the scenes, it’s all about final calls – two exhibition games left, and no room for uncertainty.

This roster, though, has expectations baked in. A 92-win season in 2025, plus a clubhouse led by Dansby Swanson and Alex Bregman. So now, Manager Craig Counsell isn’t experimenting anymore, but locking in pieces for a postseason push.

On March 23, 2026, the Cubs trimmed the roster, per the Chicago Tribune. Among the decisions, right-hander Collin Snider was reassigned to minor-league camp. The report noted:

“The Chicago Cubs again trimmed their big-league camp roster before Sunday’s Cactus League finale by returning infielder Jonathon Long, and right-handed relievers Corbin Martin and Collin Snider to the minor-league side.”

Chicago Cubs cap (Image Credits: Imagn)

Snider, a four-year MLB arm, logged 24 games last season with the Seattle Mariners. Solid strikeout flashes this spring didn’t secure a spot. With Opening Day looming, Chicago is choosing certainty over upside.

Ethan Conrad’s Pro Debut Delayed as Chicago Cubs Play It Safe With Back Issue

The Cubs took a swing on upside when they drafted Ethan Conrad despite shoulder surgery. That made his pro debut one of the most anticipated storylines in the system this year.

Now, pump the brakes, because Conrad is done with shoulder rehab, but a lower-back issue has popped up. He missed the Spring Breakout game, and the timeline isn’t clean.

Chicago Cubs cap (Image Credits: Imagn)

Per MLB Pipeline, the Chicago Cubs player development director Jason Kanzler said the setback could sideline him “roughly a month,” with no firm return date. No single incident caused it either. Chicago’s playing it safe – protect the long-term upside, even if the debut gets delayed.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: