New Chicago Cub Trey Mancini was officially introduced into the Cubs’ world today, with quotes coming from the media and also an appearance on Marquee.
There is the obligatory – but genuine – excitement to be part of this organization, especially at this time:
As expected, Mancini will be moving all around, with equal comfort for him at first base, DH, or in a corner outfield spot. There was good reason to think that was part of the package when the Cubs went after him in the first place, given their roster, but it is nevertheless good to hear it straight from the recently-signed-free-agent’s mouth. There is no sense of entitlement whatsoever about any particular spot or job. He just wants to contribute where he can. (That attitude tracks with everything I’ve heard about Mancini, by the way – pretty sure he’s going to be an exceptional teammate.)
Mancini said he will not be playing for Team Italy in the WBC after all. I really appreciate how he took ownership of initially indicating he would play, and then changing his mind after signing with a new team:
Mancini is already showing support for the players across town, but in a way we can all get behind:
Mancini told Marquee that he is ready to play wherever, and he’s communicated that with manager David Ross. He talked about how well-liked Ross is around the game, and how excited he is to get to play for him. That was kind of a nice extra thing to hear, especially given how involved Ross is in the recruitment of players.
Mancini also shared some stories about his time at Wrigley Field as a kid in the summer of 2004.
“One of my best friends growing up was a diehard Cubs fan and we went to a couple games that summer,” Mancini said. “I remember wearing a Matt Clement goatee to one of the games — they gave it to everybody in the stadium back then. I have a picture of me with that big goatee on my chin.”
Mancini must’ve shared the picture with Marquee, because it wound up part of the Cubs 360 broadcast:
More love for Wrigley Field from Mancini:
Ope, Mancini also hopped on 670 The Score: