MESA, Ariz. -- The Cubs have decided to carry eight relievers when they begin the regular season but haven't announced the final group because they're still waiting to see if Pedro Strop will be ready.
Strop, who was slowed this spring because of a left calf strain, made his first Cactus League appearance on Thursday night against the Giants and retired the side. He was expected to get at least two more appearances in exhibition games before the season starts next Thursday against the Marlins.
"We're waiting on that," manager Joe Maddon said on Friday about Strop's health.