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Matt Mervis Just Isn't Working Out For the Cubs
Photo: D. Ross Cameron-USA TODAY Sports

With his latest demotion , Matt Mervis once again is on the outside looking in. Just a year ago, he was thought of highly as a part of the Chicago Cubs' next great core. 

"Mash" Mervis would eventually force the Cubs' hand by earning his first promotion during the 2023 season. Viewed as the heir apparent to Anthony Rizzo, there were certainly lofty expectations for the undrafted free agent. 

Unfortunately, Mervis has been unable to get anything going during his stints at the Major League level. His most recent stint is a stark reminder that not every top prospect will work out.

The common theme during Mervis' time on the roster is that he simply looks overwhelmed by MLB pitching. It remains to be seen if the pressure is getting to him, but he doesn't look comfortable like he does as an Iowa Cub.

A .115 BA isn't going to cut it on a roster that is vying for postseason contention. It also isn't enough to overcome his positional deficiency as only a 1B/DH type player.

The Cubs may have seen the writing on the wall already when they went out and acquired Michael Busch in the offseason. So far, Busch has looked every bit as impressive and valuable with his ability at playing multiple positions.

If this is actually the end for Matt Mervis' time as a Chicago Cub, it will be a sad turn of events after all of the hype that he had built as a prospect. The power looked legit, but it seems to have been all for naught.

Fortunately for the Cubs, they haven't needed to count on him as a major piece of the roster. Cody Bellinger's return will provide the team with another option at first base if needed.

If Mervis is able to overcome these bumps in the road, it will have been quite the redemption story. If not, he'll be another name that just couldn't put it all together on the biggest stage.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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