April 04--Shortstop Addison Russell and second baseman Ben Zobrist are in no immediate danger of losing their jobs, but there's an interesting long-range development to watch in the Chicago Cubs' minor league system.
Shortstop Gleyber Torres, the top prospect in the system, and 2015 first-round pick Ian Happ, will start the season at Class-A Myrtle Beach. After playing at various positions in his career at the University of Cincinnati, Happ will settle in at second base.
After four minor league seasons, 2012 first-round pick Albert Almora will make his Triple-A Iowa debut. Joining him will be first baseman Dan Vogelbach. The Iowa team will include outfielders John Andreoli, Ryan Kalish and Juan Perez.
C.J. Edwards, Pierce Johnson, Ryan Williams, Jean Machi, Spencer Patton and Ryan Gomes are on Iowa's pitching staff.
Third baseman Jeimer Candelario, who made a strong impression in spring training, was assigned to Double-A Tennessee. He'll be joined by versatile Taylor Davis, pitchers Paul Blackburn and Jen-Ho Tseng, hard-throwing reliever Andury Acevedo and outfielders Mark Zagunis, Billy McKinney and Jacob Hannamann.
Class-A South Bend's roster will include left-handers Justin Steele and Carson Sands and outfielders Eloy Jimenez and Donnie Dewees.
Duane Underwood, who was sidelined in spring training because of a tender right elbow and allergies, wasn't listed on any of the rosters of the four minor league affiliates.
