The Cubs have signed Brian Duensing to a two-year deal. I wasn't surprised, and the deal makes a lot of sense. Duensing was very effective after his early season problems. He should continue to be a valuable middle reliever, especially as the Cubs were a little light on experienced talent from the left side.
Duensing rejoins holdovers Strop, Edwards, and Wilson from last year's team, as well as Mike Montgomery as the swingman, and new additions Cishek and Morrow. Justin Grimm will compete for the eighth spot along with a bunch of unproven players like Dillon Maples and some other marginal guys like Randy Rosario.
Personally, I think seven relievers is quite enough for any team with a solid rotation, but Maddon often likes to carry eight relievers. Should the Cubs not sign a proven starter in free agency, Montgomery would be the logical choice to move up to a starting role, opening up another bullpen slot.
It's looking more and more as if the Cubs are content with the position players they have now and that they are unlikely to make a trade that separates them from any of their younger talent. I'm sure they would move Heyward and/or Zobrist in a minute, but they are not going to find takers for these players. Victor Caratini also is looking like the option of choice for backup catcher.
Realistically, there is no reason for the front office not to be happy with the roster of position players. They may lack a natural leadoff hitter, but, with the exception of Caratini or whoever emerges as the backup catcher, every other position player of the twelve guys who are a lock to make the team could start full time with a contending team and be productive.
