Even though they had eight available spots on the 40-man roster, second most in MLB, the Cubs opted to protect only four players from the Rule 5 Draft on December 12. Catcher Miguel Amaya was a no-doubter all the way around, righty Tyson Miller was the most obvious pitcher, and shortstop Zack Short has the kind of all-around skill to contribute in Chicago. Flame-throwing righty Manny Rodriguez was a surprise because he’s never pitched above A-ball, but that elite velocity is enticing.
Catcher P.J. Higgins Most Likely Among Unprotected Cubs Prospects to Be Lost in Rule 5 Draft
