Cubs Include 3 Catchers, Almora, Coghlan On NLDS Roster

(CBS) The Cubs have included three catchers, rookie outfielder Albert Almora and outfielder Chris Coghlan on their 25-man National League Divisional Series roster that's comprised of 11 pitchers and 14 position players. Left off the roster was outfielder Matt Szczur, who struggled mightily at the plate for the past month-and-a-half.

As expected, catchers David Ross, Miguel Montero and Willson Contreras are all on the NLDS roster. Ross and Montero are likely to serve as the starters, with Contreras having the versatility to play left field and also catch later in games on potential double-switches.

Almora's inclusion is in large part to his defense, as he's one of best outfielders in the organization. He likely will be used as a pinch-runner as well.

Right-hander Jason Hammel was left off the roster, as expected, as the Cubs have no need for a fifth starter and trust other bullpen arms more.

The Cubs host the Giants in Game 1 on Friday, with an 8:15 p.m. first pitch.

Here's the Cubs' full roster:

Position players
Anthony Rizzo
Ben Zobrist
Addison Russell
Kris Bryant
Javier Baez
David Ross
Miguel Montero
Willson Contreras
Tommy La Stella
Dexter Fowler
Jason Heyward
Jorge Soler
Albert Almora Jr.
Chris Coghlan

Pitchers
Jon Lester
Kyle Hendricks
Jake Arrieta
John Lackey
C.J. Edwards
Justin Grimm
Mike Montgomery
Travis Wood
Pedro Strop
Hector Rondon
Aroldis Chapman