CUBS AND MARLINS MAKE A DEAL
The Chicago Cubs acquired infielder Vidal Brujan from the Miami Marlins for first baseman Matt Mervis and cash.
What does it give the Chicago Cubs
The Cubs pick up a depth utility man in Brujan. He has never had much success against MLB pitching, but Brujan does have speed and the ability to defend in the infield and outfield. That makes him valuable in a bench role, though he may have to earn that job with the Cubs in spring training. He slashed an unimpressive .222/.303/.319 with 5 steals in 11 attempts with the Marlins in 2024.
What does it give the Miami Marlins
The Marlins will take a chance on Mervis, a notable home run hitter in the minors the past few seasons. The 26-year-old first baseman also got a few looks with the Cubs, but struggled in his first MLB action (.155 AVG with 3 HR and 40 K in 116 AB). Mervis will now get a better opportunity to make the Marlins, who are in need of infield depth and power hitters.
Fantasy impact
For now, this trade will not have much fantasy impact. Brujan is not a factor in fantasy baseball, while Mervis has yet to prove he can hit MLB pitching. But keep an eye on Mervis. If he earns a spot with the Marlins, his potential as a power hitter could make him worth a look.
