Chicago Cubs: 4 disappointments who should be replaced at the trade deadline

2. Eric Sogard is hurting the Cubs as an everyday starter

After a strong spring camp, veteran Eric Sogard was brought on to give the Cubs depth in their infield. He beat out Nico Hoerner for a spot on the roster, probably for service time reasons, but baring any unforeseen injuries to everyday players he was going to be the backup option. As it turns out, the unforeseen injuries occurred, and manager David Ross has started Sogard more than most would like at the moment.

To little surprise, Hoerner played himself into the starting role when he was finally called up past his extra year of service time date. He picked up where he left off in spring before hitting the injured list with a hamstring injury. David Bote has also been ineffective and injured, and Matt Duffy was very productive but also currently on the injured list. This leaves starts open for Sogard but he hasn’t produced enough.

The 35-year-old is slashing .237/.276/.303 with one home run and 10 RBIs in 152 at-bats this season. If there’s any upside to Sogard at the plate it’s his .276 batting average with runners in scoring position. That being said, they will need more from him if he’s going to be in the lineup every day as opposed to the occasional spark he brings off the bench.

He may fit better in that limited role once Hoerner returns, but there could also be better options at the deadline should the Cubs look to revamp their bench.