Cubs add top prospect Shaw to Opening Day roster

The Chicago Cubs have announced their Opening Day roster, which includes top prospect Matt Shaw. He is set to make his major-league debut against the Los Angeles Dodgers at the Tokyo Dome. To make space on their roster, the Cubs designated reliever Keegan Thompson for assignment. He did not travel to Japan. They also sent pitcher Daniel Palencia to Triple-A after he played in an exhibition game against the Yomiuri Giants. Right-hander Javier Assad has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a strained left oblique. Additionally, reliever Brad Keller, who traveled as a non-roster invitee, was not activated. If Keller is not added to the roster before the end of spring training, he may opt out of his contract. Some key players, including starters Jameson Taillon and Matt Boyd, are not on the 26-man roster. They cannot participate in the Tokyo Series. However, they are listed as part of a special roster for this overseas trip. The full 26-man roster includes two starting pitchers, 11 relievers, and several players in the infield and outfield positions. Shaw is among seven infielders, and the team has four outfielders on the roster.