After fighting for roster spots throughout spring training, the Chicago Cubs have decided on two players who will play in the Tokyo Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers in just eight days.
According to The Athletic's Patrick Mooney, Gage Workman (Rule 5 Draft) and Vidal Brujan (traded via Marlins) were informed that they have made the Opening Day roster and will travel to Japan with the team.
Brujan had been in competition with Kevin Alcantara for the backup centerfielder role. At the same time, Workman has spent time at third base because top prospect Matt Shaw is likely not ready to go for the opening series.
Shaw, however, will be ready to go. If Workman earns a starting spot, Shaw will move over and play second base in Nico Hoerner's absence.
Brujan and Workman each have good springs, Workman especially. His .414 batting average ranks first among all hitters, and his 1.214 OPS and .759 rank second, trailing only Trayce Thompson in both categories.
The 27-year-old Brujan has a .259 average, but when he gets on base, he looks to swipe a bag. He's done that well, as he is tied for second in spring training with four stolen bases.
With Hoerner's return looming after the Cubs return to the States, the short two-game series against LA will be crucial for two fringe roster players.
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