Christopher Morel Addresses CubsCon Absence Amid Trade Speculation

This is yet another example of why random social media rumors/assumptions shouldn't be taken too seriously. Christopher Morel was originally listed on the 2024 Cubs Convention lineup and then all of a sudden his name was no longer found when looking through this weekend's events. That led to some fans thinking a trade of Morel was in the works, with some connecting dots following the Michael Busch trade with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

However, it was this post from Thursday night that really sent Cubs fans into a frenzy.

Interesting GIF choice, showing Homer Simpson waiving goodbye, which made Cubs fans think Morel was on his way out. This was further emphasized with the following response.

Well, it turns out that no, Morel isn't getting traded.

Morel addressed his sudden absence from this year's Cubs Convention by posting a message on his Instagram story Friday night. The messages read as follows:

To all Chicago Cubs fans, sorry I couldn't make it to Cubs Con this year. Unfortunately my VISA was delayed. I was excited to be there and was disappointed when I received this news. I will see you all very soon at spring training! I cannot wait for this season! Love and peace.

So, that clears that up.

Earlier in the offseason, Morel's name was brought up by USA Today's Bob Nightengale as the Cubs were attempting to trade for right-handed starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow, who was still with the Tampa Bay Rays at the time. Cubs president Jed Hoyer was so infuriated that Nightengale erroneously reported that Morel was involved in the trade talks with Tampa Bay that the Cubs executive confronted Nightengale in person at the Winter Meetings.

Hoyer may have been alluding to that incident when addressing Morel trade rumors during this weekend's CubsCon.

Morel, 24, made his MLB debut during the 2022 season and then was called up in May of 2023. The powerful right-handed hitter blasted 26 home runs in 429 plate appearances last year, while posting a 119 wRC+ behind a slash line of .247/.313/.508.

Questions remain whether Morel will settle in at third base for the Cubs and if he can raise his defensive ability at the hot corner, then the Cubs might have themselves a special player for years to come.