What Cubs fans should expect from Matt Mervis right away

The Cubs are calling up first baseman prospect Matt Mervis. What can Chicago fans expect from this power hitting prospect?

Jeff Passan of ESPN.com delivered promising news to Cubs fans on Thursday, announcing that Chicago is promoting Matt Mervis. The left-handed first baseman was acquired following the 2020 MLB draft, which was limited to five rounds that year.

Mervis played first base, served in the starting rotation, and captained the team during his senior season at Duke. After primarily playing in Myrtle Beach in 2021, he quickly advanced through the minor leagues in 2022, hitting a combined 36 home runs at High-A South Bend, Double-A Tennessee, and Triple-A Iowa. Mervis concluded 2022 by leading the Arizona Fall League with six home runs and earning the title of Cubs Minor League Player of the Year.

Cubs: What are the scouts saying about Matt Mervis?

The team over at Baseball America gave Mervis a glowing scouting report about his approach at the plate. ($)

“He has excellent bat speed and natural timing, and his improved swing path and selectivity give him a chance to be an average hitter. Mervis can be a touch aggressive on soft stuff below the zone and isn’t as dangerous against lefthanders, but he demolishes fastballs, has good strike-zone recognition and keeps his strikeouts low for a power hitter”

So looking at the batting balls data on balls in play via Brooks Baseball, his average exit velocity from hard (fastballs) and breaking was 90mph. That boasts well, considering it is above the International League average of 87.7MPH. He hammers right-handed pitching with power, which the Cubs need as they have lost five out of their last six heading into Thursday.

His role

Considering Mervis’ power against right-handed pitchers, the Cubs could utilize him in a platoon arrangement with Trey Mancini, who performs well against left-handed pitchers.

Eric Hosmer, signed by Chicago in the offseason, has exhibited limited power, primarily hitting singles and batting .258 across his last 32 plate appearances. Over that stretch, he managed just two extra-base hits (a double and a home run) and drew only one walk while striking out 12 times. Mervis’ debut is anticipated to occur soon, as the Cubs are set to face the Marlins on Friday.