Chicago Cubs: 10 bats to target as MLB trade deadline looms

Chicago Cubs: 10 bats to target at the trade deadline: #9 – Trey Mancini

You’ve just got to love Trey Mancini. This guy has all my respect for beating stage 3 colon cancer and coming back as soon as he did. For that, he is a warrior. Finishing second in the Home Run Derby this year, Mancini is a fan favorite in Baltimore. However, Baltimore is Baltimore and they are looking to sell. As previously noted with Santander, Mancini and John Means are also both believed to be available in an effort to finally clean house and move on.

Mancini currently owns a .261/.334/.458 slash line with 16 home runs and 57 driven in. Not far off from his career mark of .273/.334/.480, the first baseman has remained a consistent bright spot in an otherwise faltering lineup.

Due to having an extra year of team control on his contract before hitting the market after next season, Mancini would be a valuable trade chip for anyone looking for a shot of life in the offensive department. The Chicago Cubs could certainly utilize his services moving forward. My gut tells me if anyone gets extended this year, it’s Rizzo. Luckily, Mancini can man the outfield as well.

Currently earning $4.75 million for 2021, his third year of arbitration next season still figures to be somewhat team-friendly for a player of his caliber and talent. The Cubs should be all-in as he would be a strong piece to help turn the ship around in Chicago and be a leader in the clubhouse.