One of the frequently asked questions as Spring Training approaches is how many minor league options does a player have left. As the Cubs roster is currently constructed, there will be competition in the spring for the available spots on the 25-man active roster.
An option (optional assignment) allows a club to move a player on its 40-man roster to and from the minor leagues without exposing him to the other 29 teams.
When a player is added to the 40-man roster, his club has three options, or three separate seasons during which the club may move him to and from the minor leagues without exposing him to other clubs.