MLB Rumors: Braves shortstop battle, Cubs buzz, Mets secret

ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 16: Vaughn Grissom #18 of the Atlanta Braves walks into the dugout prior to the game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Truist Park on September 16, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin Liles/Atlanta Braves/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 16: Vaughn Grissom #18 of the Atlanta Braves walks into the dugout prior to the game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Truist Park on September 16, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin Liles/Atlanta Braves/Getty Images) /
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SURPRISE, AZ – MARCH 07: Christopher Morel #5 of the Chicago Cubs. MLB Rumors, Braves, Mets (Photo by Ben Ludeman/Texas Rangers/Getty Images)
SURPRISE, AZ – MARCH 07: Christopher Morel #5 of the Chicago Cubs. MLB Rumors, Braves, Mets (Photo by Ben Ludeman/Texas Rangers/Getty Images) /

MLB Rumors: Cubs call-up looming for Christopher Morel?

Chicago Cubs third baseman Christopher Morel could have a call-up looming, especially if he continues to rake as he has in Triple-A Iowa.

Morel can play multiple positions, and Chicago has talent at third base. Patrick Wisdom and Nick Madrigal make up the depth chart. Morel, were he called up, would likely get some playing time there as well.

As of Friday, Morel was getting on base at a .511 clip, and also had a pair of home runs for Iowa. He’s driven in nine runs as well, but Morel’s spring training struggles have unfortunately traveled with him across the country. NBC Sports’ James Neveau pointed out these struggles, and why they might be keeping Morel from a big-league roster spot. He’s struck out 13 times in 35 at-bats, but Morel’s positional flexibility has been on full display.

"“Morel’s positional versatility has also been on full display in Iowa. While he has started five games at third base, he has also started at each of the three outfield positions in those other contests, going error-free in 18 fielding chances so far.”"

Morel made his MLB debut with the Cubs last season. Should he continue to play this well, perhaps he can earn a starting spot by the time the 162-game campaign ends.