Chicago Cubs News: The Cincinnati Reds ascension, Christopher Morel at 3B, and more

Cincinnati Reds take over first place in the National League Central

With the St. Louis Cardinals being one of the biggest disappointments of the 2023 MLB season, the focus for the Chicago Cubs in the National League Central division has been on the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Cubs have won their first four games against the Pirates this season but a new team in the National League Central race has emerged.

The Cincinnati Reds have won nine games in a row and have taken over first place in the National League Central. Making things worse for the Cubs, Reds' first baseman Joey Votto made his season debut on Monday and had an immediate impact.

The Reds are going to be a problem for the Cubs moving forward and the team's front office has not ruled out adding at the Major League Baseball trade deadline if the team remains in the race.

The Chicago Cubs know they have to try Christopher Morel at third base

Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer joined the "Mully and Haugh Show" on 670 The Score on Monday and indicated that the team is aware that Christopher Morel will need an opportunity at third base.

"“He’s done a nice job sort of bouncing around, but I do think that for some guys, it’s important to find a position and settle in,” Hoyer said. “We’d love to be able to find that spot. I think third makes some sense. His hands work really well. He probably needs to spend a lot of time working through some footwork things. He’s got such a strong arm, he should be able to do it.”"

- Jed Hoyer via 670 The Score

If Morel can emerge as a legitimate answer for the Cubs at the third base position, not only is that an important development for the team as they approach the MLB Trade Deadline but for the long-term as well. Offensively, Morel appears to be on the verge of superstardom.

The legend of Mike Tauchman grows for the Chicago Cubs

Mike Tauchman continues to be a catalyst for the Chicago Cubs offense as the center fielder went 3-for-5 with 3 RBI during the Cubs' 8-0 victory over the Pirates on Monday night.

Assuming he is in the lineup, Tauchman will have his 100th plate appearance of the season tonight against the Pirates and that provides more credibility to his start to the season. Tauchman is slashing .282/.408/.359 on the season while registering a wRC+ of 120.

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