Trey Mancini's struggles add to Chicago Cubs prospect Matt Mervis' promotion debate

With the calls for the Chicago Cubs to promote first base prospect Matt Mervis growing louder, some within the fanbase have suggested that veteran first baseman Eric Hosmer is not being evaluated fairly. The loyalty that some Cubs fans have shown Hosmer is perplexing considering the veteran first baseman has been rated as a below-average offensive player since 2017.

To that end, many have suggested why fans aren't calling for Trey Mancini's roster spot to be in question when it comes to a potential promotion of Mervis. The reason is quite simple as Mancini signed a two-year deal this off-season and it would be far easier and less of a financial hit for the Cubs to waive Hosmer considering the league-minimum salary that is attached to his name for the 2023 season.

Having said that, Mancini's start to the 2023 season has been concerning as he is struggling in the same way that he did with the Houston Astros during the second half of the 2022 season. Through 60 plate appearances, Mancini is slashing .196/.220/.250 with a lowly 25 wRC+ and .211 wOBA.

With the Cubs appearing to be a legitimate topic in the conversation of postseason contenders this season, a point will be reached this season where the team has to begin to evaluate their roster in a way that will allow them to identify the weakness and find a solution. The play of Hosmer and Mancini this season has been a weakness this season. The weakness is magnified with respect to Mancini as his addition was to bring stability to the middle of the Cubs' lineup.

Undoubtedly, the Cubs are going to give Mancini the benefit of the doubt and an opportunity to change his fortunes around this season. Though, that courtesy should have an expiration date no later than June 1 as Mervis continues to give off the impression of being a real answer for the Cubs' offensive needs.