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Counsell Confirms Mike Tauchman's Spot on Cubs' Opening Day Roster

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Ron Luce | Last updated 3/4/24

When a Major League Baseball team has their roster largely set, there aren't many Spring Training position battles at hand. In the case of the Chicago Cubs, the only spots with legitimate competition are the infield corners. However, the question regarding the team's fourth and potentially fifth outfielders isn't set in stone just yet, or at least so we think.

Despite the uncertainty, one name can be penciled into the Cubs' Opening Day roster. According to MLB Insider Bruce Levine, manager Craig Counsell told OF Mike Tauchman that he will make the Opening Day roster. As a result, only one outfield bench spot appears to be up for grabs.

Cubs manager Craig Counsell told reporters today that Michael Tauchman will be a part of the 26 man squad to start the 2024 season. ( Counsell said he told Tauchman he had a spot when spring training started)
— Bruce Levine (@MLBBruceLevine) March 3, 2024

Tauchman arrived in Chicago last season as a non-roster invite to Spring Training. He signed a minor-league deal with his hometown team after returning from the KBO. After starting the season with the Iowa Cubs, Tauchman was called up on May 19 and never returned to the minors.

In 108 games last season, Tauchman slashed .252/.363/.377 with eight home runs, 18 doubles, and 48 RBI. Tauchman also scored 64 runs, showing his importance as the lead-off man for a number of stretches. In addition, Tauchman had the catch of the year to help turn the Cubs season around.

TAUCHMAN. BALLGAME. WOW. pic.twitter.com/MhuKBcm1sS
— Cubs On Tap (@CubbiesOnTap) July 29, 2023

After avoiding arbitration this offseason to remain with the Cubs, Tauchman is clearly a player the organization values highly. His crazy run in the lead-off spot brought immense value in 2023 and Counsell appears to feel the same way about his depth outfielder.

Although Tauchman will likely be the fourth outfielder for the Cubs, he still has a place on the roster and in the hearts of Cubs fans everywhere after a magical 2023 season.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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