Here are some Cubs 40-man roster bubble candidates

When the Cubs announced the signings of Joc Pederson, Trevor Williams and Andrew Chafin, somebody had to go from the 40-man roster, because the Cubs’ earlier announced waiver claim of infielder Sergio Alcantara pushed the team over the roster limit. Infielder Max Schrock was odd-man-out.

The Cubs have said they’d like another starting pitcher and perhaps a position player, which would mean one or two more players might have to go off the 40-man.

Who gets your choice as next man out? Here are some possibilities.

Robert Stock, right-handed pitcher

A Cardinals second-round pick from Southern California in 2009, Stock began his pro career as a catcher. He’s tossed 63⅔ innings in MLB with a 4.24 ERA. The Cubs claimed him on waivers from the Red Sox in early December. It’s possible he would clear waivers. It’s unlikely anyone would trade value for him.

Phillip Ervin, outfielder

An outfielder able to play all three spots, Ervin was a waiver wire addition this off-season. Officially one of just three outfielders on the 40-man roster, Ervin likely gets a pass this time.

Dillon Maples, right-handed pitcher

Maples has no problems with velocity. Command and control are somewhat more problematic. Maples is out of minor league option seasons. Successfully navigating him through waivers would give the Cubs 12 more months to get value out of him, but a cash swap to the Pirates might be a realistic opportunity.

James Norwood, right-handed pitcher

Norwood was a 2014 seventh-round choice from St. Louis University. After tracking upward through the system, Norwood debuted in MLB in 2018. The lightbulb hasn’t gone on as of his last few tries with the Cubs. The velocity is fine.

Barring a trade, someone is getting designated. Who’s your call?