So, Cubs 40-man roster currently stands at 42, including the three 60-day DL guys.
How will it shape up in coming off-season?
As to protecting Rule 5 guys, AZ Phil's latest projection few weeks ago had Cubs adding only CJ Edwards to the roster, as bunch of eligibles already added. Probably a chance that Cervenka could be added too. Don't see anyone else with the caveat that we're often surprised by somebody who is added.
From current 42, see at least 7 guys out: Fukikawa (option declined), McDonald (will anybody remember a few years from now that James McDonald was on Cubs 40-man roster all season?), Villanueva (FA), Baker (dime a dozen guy), Valaika (see Baker comment), Kalish (courtesy Sept call-up--don't expect roster spot too fella), Vitters (enough already guy-can somebody say "change of scenery").
Other candidates but unlikely (seems to me): Wada ($5 option?--think he stays), Ruggiano (could go if another, better RH OFer brought in), Wright (non-tendered a year ago by Rays after a somewhat similar season to this one), Schlitter or Parker (kind of similar guys and one may be redundant if there is unexpected roster crunch. Both have an option left but will have to pass optional waivers if sent out). Do Parker a favor, guys, and just trade the guy to somebody who will keep him in majors instead of jerking him around all season as in 2014, okay?
Is this a roster crunch? Don't think so. Cubs have minimal outside needs in terms of quantity and somebody could be added via trade that would delete somebody. See Edwin Jackson.