The Chicago Cubs are gearing up for the regular season, set to kick off with a two-game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Japan. However, the team faces challenges with injuries that could significantly impact their lineup. Notably, Gold Glove second baseman Nico Hoerner will miss the trip due to recent surgery on a flexor tendon but is expected to be ready for domestic Opening Day against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Additionally, top prospect Matt Shaw, anticipated to start at third base, is also likely to skip the Japan trip due to an oblique injury, although it is not severe.

With both Hoerner and Shaw potentially sidelined, the Cubs will need to adjust their infield configuration against a formidable Dodgers roster. The team can tap into offseason acquisitions like Justin Turner, Vidal Bruján, and Jon Berti, all of whom can play at second or third base. Given Turner’s investment, he’s expected to secure one of the starting roles, while Bruján and Berti will vie for the other. This situation places the Cubs in a position where they must rely on their bench depth as they prepare for the season's opening games.