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Is it a problem that Cubs’ bullpen only has one lefty?

Aaron Doster/AP

Chicago Cubs’ Brandon Hughes, left, greets P.J. Higgins after the final out of the team’s baseball game against the Cincinnati Reds in Cincinnati, Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2022. The Cubs won 15-2.

MESA, Ariz. — The Cubs’ player development department can take a bow for their long-term vision in transforming minor-league outfielder Brandon Hughes into a dependable late-inning left-handed rookie last season.

But their offseason search for depth currently includes six non-roster invitees in camp. Given the implementation of the three-batter minimum in 2020, there is consideration to carrying Hughes as their lone lefty in the bullpen when they open the season in three weeks.