The Chicago Cubs reportedly have targeted a first base option, and it’s not Trey Mancini.
The Chicago Cubs have made some big moves this offseason to help the team get back into contention. Their headlining addition was shortstop Dansby Swanson on a seven-year contract, while bringing in former 2019 NL MVP Cody Bellinger on a one-year prove-it deal. While those were huge signees, the team still had a need at first base, a void left by Anthony Rizzo since 2021.
It appears the team is closing in on their first baseman, and no, it’s not Trey Mancini.
FanSided MLB insider Robert Murray has heard that former Kansas City Royals and San Diego Padres first baseman Eric Hosmer is talking with the Cubs, and a deal might be close.
The New York Post’s Jon Heyman was the first to report that Hosmer was “on the radar” for the Cubs.
Cubs rumors: Chicago talking with former Royals, Padres 1B Eric Hosmer
Hosmer notably began his career with the Royals, where he showed off his hitting ability and, most notably, his defensive ability at first base. In his seven years in Kansas City, Hosmer won four Gold Glove awards. He also helped the Royals win the World Series in 2015, their second in franchise history.
In 2018, Hosmer signed a lucrative eight-year, $144 million contract with the Padres. He didn’t have the accolades like he had in Kansas City, but he did put up solid numbers in the batter’s box. This past season, Hosmer was supposed to be in the Juan Soto-Josh Bell trade between the Padres and Washington Nationals, but he utilized his no-trade clause. He was ultimately dealt to the Boston Red Sox, and the Padres are paying most of the remaining money owed on his contract.
Hosmer opted into his contract with Boston for the 2023 season in early November, but he was designated for assignment on Dec. 16.
Between San Diego and Boston this past season, Hosmer recorded a .268 batting average, a .334 on-base percentage, a .382 slugging percentage, eight home runs, 44 RBI, and 102 hits through 104 games.