Beloved former Cubs utility man just landed with a new team in a totally new role

Christopher Morel has found a new team, and along with that, a new position. The Miami Marlins have signed Morel to a one-year deal with the expectation that he could take over first base for the National League East ball club. Morel was designated for assignment last month by the Tampa Bay Rays.

Traded by the Cubs to Tampa Bay as part of the Isaac Paredes swap ahead of the 2024 MLB trade deadline, Morel's departure spoke to the emotionless decision-making that Jed Hoyer's front office can often act with. Hoyer was aware the Cubs' lineup was in need of a different look, and he opted to give Paredes a run at the hot corner.

As it turns out, Wrigley Field may not have been the best home for Paredes, considering his extreme-pull tendencies. Paredes was dealt to the Houston Astros as part of the Kyle Tucker trade last offseason, but for Morel, Tampa Bay wasn't the change of scenery he was hoping for.

Primarily playing left field for the Rays, More slashed .219/.289/.396 last season with a wRC+ of 90 and 11 home runs. Strikeouts have always been the main issue negating the raw power the former Cubs' farmhand possesses, and that was no different in 2025, striking out over 35% of the time.

Former Cubs fan-favorite Christopher Morel has a chance to revive his career with the Marlins.

Between his versatility and power, it was no surprise that he found a Major League deal this offseason. Interestingly enough, the Marlins are planning on playing primarily at first base. While More has yet to play in any Major League games at first base, it was a position the Cubs were considering for him before Michael Busch's ascension.

The Marlins, a potential trade partner for the Cubs this offseason, have been in the market for a corner infielder, so even if Morel doesn't stick the landing at first base, his ability to play third base should also help their roster.

Shifting to the Cubs, there would have been very little reason to have interest in Morel. The Cubs are in the market for a third baseman, but someone who can provide a greater impact for the starting lineup. If anything, at some point before spring training, the Cubs may look to add a veteran utility man as they look to improve the production they received from their bench last season.