Who Could Be 2023’s Matt Mervis? Lots of Guys Who Could Breakout in a Big Way

Ethan Hearn is a young talent who could be 2023’s Matt Mervis.

Matt Mervis had a great season in 2022. He hit 30+ home runs and drove in almost 110 runs. In 2021 he hit .200. The Cubs have a player with those characteristics at Myrtle Beach or lower who could potentially go through three levels of affiliated ball in 2023.

Kevin Alcantara, James Triantos, Moises Ballesteros and Reggie Preciado are no longer on the prospect list. Ezequiel Pagán has had a monster year and he's not sneaking up on anybody. He can play all three outfield spots but he probably best suited for left.

Parker Chavers was drafted by the Cubs in the seventh round of the 2021 MLB draft. He played a little last year and was injured start this year. Chaver hit .244 in 35 games in second half of last season.

Christian Franklin was drafted by the Cubs in the 2021 MLB draft. Franklin missed all of 2022 due to injury. He has all the tools to be a big success like Matt Mervis. However, he is an outfielder and he's going to play in a system steeped in outfielders.

Haydn McGeary was drafted by the Cubs in the 15th round. He played for Myrtle Beach last season. McGarey is probably going to start next year at Myrle Beach.

Gary Ola could be the next Matt Mervis. Andy Garriola was drafted in the 17th round of this year’s draft out of Old Dominion. Gary Olla has already faced elite competition in college. He could see Andy putting together an outstanding season next year where he moves from Myrtle Beach to South Bend to Tennessee.

Ethan Hearn has been playing for Myrtle Beach for the last two seasons. He's been a good player and a manager for his team. Hearne's catching skills have improved this year. Miguel Amaya will be at AAA next year, so Hearna could move up.

Matt Mervis moved up from the minors to the big leagues in a hurry. He spent 27 games in South Bend and 2 months at Tennessee. Now he's been in Iowa for the better part of 2.5 months.