Cubs News: Former free-agent bust retires, Craig Counsell on replacing Dansby Swanson, Jacob Webb

The post-Anthony Rizzo era at first base for the Chicago Cubs got off to a rough start. Frank Schwindel's lore quickly wore off, Alfonso Rivas offered very little offensively, and even Patrick Wisdom had clear warts in his profile.

The Cubs hoped that would change with the signing of Trey Mancini in 2023. Mancini was coming off a rough finish to the 2022 season with the Houston Astros, and carried those struggles with him during his run in Chicago. He posted a wRC+ of 75 through 263 plate appearances, and was cut loose before the end of the season.

Trey Mancini's career ends years after his Cubs tenure quickly unraveled

It felt like Mancini had reached the end of his playing career, but to his credit, he kept the journey alive for a few more years. After spending a bulk of the last three seasons playing for various minor-league affiliates across the league, he returned to the majors this year with the Los Angeles Angels.

It was short-lived, only 14 games, but he collected four hits in 14 plate appearances. Instead of continuing the journey, Mancini has called it a career.

Craig Counsell reveals Cubs' plan for replacing Dansby Swanson

The Cubs confirmed on Monday that Dansby Swanson is recovering from an oblique strain, and is expected to miss around four weeks. It's certainly possible the timeline is extended based on Swanson responds to the injury, but the expectation is that he will be back in time for the postseason.

Craig Counsell penciled Pedro Ramirez in as the starting second baseman on Monday against the Chicago White Sox, and that likely will be the primary plan moving forward, considering Nico Hoerner has shifted over to shortstop.

Matt Shaw should also factor into those plans when he returns after a minor-league rehab assignment. Counsell confirmed Shaw's rehab assignment is starting on Wednesday with the Iowa Cubs.

Jacob Webb should remain the Cubs' closer regardless of who returns to the bullpen

The Cubs didn't add an established closer at the trade deadline, and the reality is they didn't need one. Jacob Webb has become one of the most success high-leverage relief pitchers in baseball this season.

Webb hasn't allowed a run in his last 22 appearances, and is striking out over 27% of the hitters he's faced since June 24. While the Cubs raced out last offseason to sign Phil Maton to a multi-year deal and gamble on Hunter Harvey staying healthy, Webb has proven to be one of the best moves Jed Hoyer made over the winter.

Regardless of how the Cubs' bullpen shakes out with pending returns, Webb needs to remain the team's closer. It shouldn't be a debate at this point.

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