The Chicago Cubs are getting ready for their overseas regular-season opener in Japan, and they reduced their spring training roster from 42 players to 35.

MLB teams may be in the midst of spring training season, but two of the league's 30 teams, including the Chicago Cubs, are preparing for an uncharacteristically early start to the season in less than two weeks.

Matt Shaw is primed to make the leap to the big leagues in 2025, but it still remains to be seen if the Chicago Cubs are comfortable inserting him into their lineup for the Tokyo Series.

Shohei Ohtani's bat is ready for the Los Angeles Dodgers while Shota Imanaga has looked good on the mound for the Chicago Cubs with less than 10 days remaining before baseball's regular-season opener in Japan.

The Chicago Cubs are starting to trim up their roster ahead of Opening Day. While other teams around the league are able to enjoy the normal spring training ram

The Chicago Cubs still have some opening day roster spots to be earned, and there is a surprise candidate standing out in spring training.

The Cubs arrived at Spring Training with a pair of runways to Opening Day. The North Siders had to map out plans for the mid-March trip to Japan, while also weighing roster construction for the domestic opener at the end of the month.

The Chicago Cubs will be without star second baseman Nico Hoerner for their opening series in Japan against the Los Angeles Dodger

The Chicago Cubs are close to establishing their 40-man roster after 11 roster moves to Triple-A or minor league camps.

MESA, Ariz. — Beginning the regular season with two games in Japan adds a twist for the Cubs in setting their Opening Day roster. They also need to have their travel roster set before boarding the plane after a Cactus League game against the Brewers next Tuesday.