When the Chicago Cubs signed Dansby Swanson to a $177 million contract, it looked like the start of what’s to come. Instead, they could lose out on another top target.
Chicago is among the favorites to land first baseman/outfielder/DH Trey Mancini, but recent reports suggest that he could be more inclined to sign with the Washington Nationals. Mancini is beloved in the DMV, so it would make sense for Washington to maintain some level of interest in him as a buy-low candidate to flip at the trade deadline.
This is concerning for a Chicago team that has framed its entire offseason into turning this roster into a contender. If not, why sign Dansby Swanson or Jameson Taillon, among others?
Cubs rumors: Has Chicago lost out on Trey Mancini?
It’s far too early to suggest the Cubs lost out on a player the caliber of Mancini. The report is vague, to say the least, and merely points out Washington’s interest. Jed Hoyer could also be in contact with Mancini’s camp, in theory, doing the same exact thing.
If Mancini were to sign elsewhere, the Cubs could turn their attention to the likes of Eric Hosmer, who remains on the free-agent market after being released by the Boston Red Sox. The chasm between Mancini and Hosmer is wide, however, and should be noted as a disappointment to fans who expected at least one more marquee signing this Winter.
Mancini is an affordable get for Chicago, if only because his time with the Houston Astros after the trade deadline did not go as planned. Mancini hit below the Mendoza line after being a force with a surprising Baltimore Orioles team.
The former O’s All-Star could be a difference-maker in any lineup, plus he offers versatility the Cubs don’t have much of right now.
So, what’s the holdup?