Cubs' Opening Day roster starting to take shape

MESA, Ariz. – The Cubs can see their Opening Day roster starting to take shape.

The Cubs released infielder Munenori Kawasaki, outfielder Shane Victorino and left-hander Manny Parra on Tuesday, but say they are trying to re-sign all three players. The exact details on those minor-league deals are unclear, but the timing makes sense as the Cubs look to avoid paying $100,000 retention bonuses.

Subtracting those three players would cut the spring roster to 32, with the Cubs needing to see if infielder/outfielder Javier Baez (thumb) is healthy enough to start the season and Neil Ramirez pushing to make the team as an eighth reliever.