MESA, Ariz. -- As expected, after a weekend of split-squad games the Chicago Cubs reduced their roster to 53 on Monday by sending eight players to minor league camp, the team announced.

Forty-man roster players Christian Villanueva and Rafael Lopez have been optioned to Triple-A Iowa, while non-roster invitees Corey Black, Pierce Johnson, Armando Rivero, Donn Roach and Hunter Cervanka have been assigned to the minor league side along with injured infielder Logan Watkins.

Of the 53 left in camp, there are 28 pitchers, five catchers, 10 infielders and 10 outfielders. Included in that group are 15 non-roster invitees.