Cubs Option Daniel Palencia To Triple-A Iowa, Roster To 37

Among the more surprising of the cuts was reliever Daniel Palencia. The 24-year-old made his debut last season with serviceable production out of the bullpen. His 4.45 ERA may not look great on paper, but he still was able to provide the Cubs an option from a very worn-out bullpen in the second half.

While not being able to set himself apart from the competition of spring training, this certainly doesn't mean the end for Palencia. He should still figure to be in the Cubs' plans in case of an injury or demotion to a fellow teammate. 

Being on the 40-man roster helps Palencia's case. Those other names aren't as fortunate.  

Infielder David Bote was having a terrific spring in the power department. His five home runs should have presented a case for him to once again reclaim his spot on the major league roster. 

In Bote's case, it just seems like the Cubs don't have room for him on the roster anymore. Not being on the 40-man roster certainly helps the Cubs for depth purposes, but it also wouldn't be surprising if Bote were able to get his release and look to latch on somewhere else.

With injuries already taking center stage at camp, it should open up more work for the Cubs' already bountiful depth. Non-roster invites like Garrett Cooper and Dominic Smith look to be shoo-ins for opening day.

The Opening Day roster should be of great interest. It will certainly have a new set of fingerprints this go around with new manager Craig Counsell at the helm.