The Cubs added Kawasaki to the 40-man roster Sunday and optioned the infielder to Triple-A Iowa, Jesse Rogers of ESPN Chicago reports.

EDGE Analysis

During four seasons between the Mariners' and Blue Jays' organizations, Kawasaki has logged the majority of his time at second base and shortstop, but third base has been his domain on occasion. With Javier Baez (thumb) landing on the DL to open the season, Kawasaki will serve as insurance in case another injury occurs to the Cubs' infield. If he does make an appearance with the big club, Kawasaki will be looking to parlay a spring slash line of .375/.455/.563 in 48 at-bats into regular season success, though he's known far more for his deftness with the glove.