Cubs will use Christopher Morel to concentrate on third base as Matt Chapman is still unsigned.
Speaking with the accent of a front-desk employee, Counsell emphasizes the organization’s overall strength as well as the potential that exists within youthful talent. Counsell’s problem-solving abilities and open-mindedness enable him to change his perspective and adjust to the situation. Since the Cubs are keeping an eye on things rather than going after Chapman, this isn’t even necessary an attempt to gain leverage. However, it’s interesting that Counsell revised his plan to play Christopher Morel at third base.
Counsell stated on Saturday, “Christopher has done so much with the bat that it’s our job to figure out the best way to deploy him.” “I want to kind of concentrate mostly on third base at the beginning of camp. See where we stand now. As we move along, let’s assess it. However, allow me to give him a go at third base. Let’s give him some consistency at third base, assess our roster situation later in camp, and then decide how to go.
The first full-squad practice on Monday will feature Morel, who wasn’t assured a spot when the previous season concluded and trade rumors started. Second base, where Nico Hoerner has developed into a Gold Glove defender and one of the team’s most important players, is undoubtedly Morel’s most natural position. Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ, the Cubs’ two main corner outfielders, are each under contract through 2026 and make about $20 million a year. Former manager David Ross believed Morel was not going to stay as an everyday third baseman. Ross worked closely with his coaching staff and the front office.
The Cubs made the decision early in the summer that they would not deal the 24-year-old Morel for a rental player. Following his Triple-A Iowa debut last season, Morel wowed the squad with 26 home runs in 107 games. Morel improved 80 percentage points from his debut season with a.821 OPS. It should be mentioned that Ross’ decision to give Morel a midseason break to watch and regroup on the bench was beneficial. Hoyer called some of the trade speculations “laughable” and “an alternate universe” during the Cubs Convention last month.
It’s a positive thing when players are questioned about, according to Counsell. “There is nothing wrong with that; those are good players. I see this as a young athlete who has experienced early success on offense. We need to determine its position. Today is not the day for a decision. However, given the volume of offensive, ideally we can clarify what defensive actions we’re asking him to take.
In summary, the Cubs assigned coaches to assist with the initiative and wanted Morel to practice at first base while playing winter ball in the Dominican Republic. However, Morel did not see any game action at first base because the Cubs have no say over the lineup for Cibaeรฑas. From the Winter Meetings to the Cubs Convention, representatives from the team emphasized the importance of Morel’s adaptability. For example, the signing of Rhys Hoskins by the Milwaukee Brewers did not significantly alter the course of the Cubs’ offseason since they had already added Michael Busch as their starting first baseman and assigned Morel as their primary right-handed hitter.
This appears to be Counsell lending his expertise in player development and roster management, rather than just a message to Boras. Counsell has the opportunity to evaluate Morel anew after so many years in Milwaukee. Morel has been a part of the Cubs organization since he was a teenager. 2020 saw Morel forego a minor-league season in favor of making his major-league debut following a scant number of Triple-A at-bats. It feels like the Cubs haven’t really explored that option yet with Morel and third base.
Counsell stated, “I know that this is still a young player defensively, but I’m really excited about the offensive potential.” “We will need to put in some work and see where that work takes us.”
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