The Chicago Cubs face an early start to their 2025 season, kicking things off in Japan on March 18 against the Los Angeles Dodgers. This means they must finalize their roster decisions ahead of most other MLB teams. While they already know second baseman Nico Hoerner will miss the overseas series due to offseason surgery, there’s also a chance top prospect Matt Shaw could be left off the roster.
On Saturday, the Cubs began trimming their roster by reassigning five pitchers to minor league camp: Caleb Kilian, Cody Poteet, Jack Neely, Gavin Hollowell, and Riley Martin. None of these moves are particularly surprising, as Martin hasn’t yet entered his option years, and the other four are on the 40-man roster with options remaining. However, Poteet’s reassignment is notable, as he was acquired in the Cody Bellinger trade and had shown promise with the New York Yankees in 2024, posting a 2.22 ERA and 188 ERA+ in five appearances (four starts) after returning from Tommy John surgery.
Poteet, a 30-year-old right-hander, will likely begin the season in Triple-A as starting depth for the Cubs. Kilian, who is out of options, is also expected to remain in the minors as a starter, as the Cubs have shown no interest in converting him to a reliever. Meanwhile, Neely, one of the team’s top relief prospects, could see time in the majors later this season or beyond, especially with potential bullpen turnover next winter. Hollowell and Martin will continue developing in the minors, with occasional call-ups as needed.
As the Cubs prepare for Opening Day, more roster cuts are expected in the coming weeks as they finalize their active roster for the 2025 campaign.
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