Following the 2023 MLB season, Christopher Morel was one of the most interesting names when thinking about the Chicago Cubs' lineup in 2024. He really doesn't have a position for the time being, he spent a lot of last season as a DH, and if the Cubs are truly going for it this offseason, they'll likely replace his work at said DH spot. With all of that in mind, where would Morel play? Enter the idea the Cubs are testing in Dominican winter ball. Per Bruce Levine and others, Morel is going to play first base for the entirety of winter ball.
Its no secret that the Cubs have a need at first base entering the offseason. With Cody Bellinger becoming a free agent, the only player actively under team control who can play the position regularly is Patrick Wisdom. With that in mind, the fit makes sense for a player like Morel.
From the GM meetings in Arizona, Jed Hoyer said that Morel is "a very capable second baseman", but with Nico Hoerner manning the position, there is little chance Morel will play there. Although third base has been a hot spot for Morel in the minds of fans, the idea of playing first makes sense as well. Morel has great athleticism, which should help him pick up the positioning and footwork required to play the spot. In addition, it would allow him to continue getting stronger and further grow into the power hitter he became last season.
In just 107 games, the 24-year-old mashed 26 home runs, which tied for the team lead with Cody Bellinger. Although his strikeout numbers leave a bit to be desired, his .821 OPS was amongst the best on the team. A slugger filling a position of need and potentially growing further with the Cubs is a bonus. In addition, if Morel is needed in any major trade this offseason, he has another position in his repertoire that he can play.
There is no timeline as to when Morel will begin playing in the Dominican winter ball league, but it is almost guaranteed that most of his time will be spent learning yet another position for 2024.
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