MESA, Ariz. (AP) The Chicago Cubs reduced their spring roster from 45 to 36 players on Friday, sending all nine non-roster invitees to minor league camp.
They are right-handed pitchers Brandon Gomes, Jean Machi and Ryan Williams; infielders Jesus Guzman and Kris Negron; and outfielders Albert Almora, John Andreoli, Matt Murton and Juan Perez.
Manager Joe Maddon said he noticed development in Almora, the Cubs' No. 1 pick in 2012, who was taken sixth overall.
''The biggest thing I saw with him, I thought he is at the point he believes he belongs here and he can do this,'' Maddon said. ''I think he wasn't as wide eyed. He played well last year. But the difference is when you talk to him he is not as wide eyed about it. He is more comfortable with it.?
The spring roster now consists of 19 pitchers, four catchers, eight infielders and five outfielders.
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