Trey Mancini was set to join Team Italy for the World Baseball Classic. His signing with the Chicago Cubs changed those plans.
According to Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune, Mancini will forgo the World Baseball Classic this year. Instead, he feels it will be more beneficial to be around his new teammates and organization as he is looking to be more of a veteran presence in the clubhouse.
Trey Mancini focused on role with Chicago Cubs
Mancini is joining a Cubs roster with high hopes but several questions. First base and center are particular areas of concern heading into the season, with Eric Hosmer and Cody Bellinger atop the respective depth charts. Prospect Matt Mervis is likely to get a look at first, and Ian Happ will slot in center if Bellinger implodes again, possibly leaving an opening in left.
His defensive versatility, allowing him to play both corner outfield spots and first base, was certainly a draw for the Cubs. He is an inspirational story as well, overcoming Stage 3 colon cancer to resume his career. And he won a World Series with the Astros last season, bringing that experience with him to Chicago.
He is more than those intangibles. Mancini posted a respectable .239/.319/.391 batting line with 18 homers and 23 doubles in his 587 plate appearances between the Orioles and Astros, a performance that the Cubs may find acceptable given their question marks on the roster. His leadership abilities will only go so far if he does not produce.
That is also a part of why he had to make that decision to forgo the WBC. Mancini does need to get ready for the regular season, both with the bat and in the clubhouse. He can best do that by being around his new teammates and getting to know the different players and personalities.
Trey Mancini has decided not to play for Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic. Instead, he is focused on being the leader the Chicago Cubs need.