It’s funny how the first few different accounts of the Cubs deal with Eric Hosmer noted that the former Royals first baseman is a four-time gold glove winner, but that analytics haven’t been kind to him the past few seasons.

Of course, these objective reports don’t cite numbers to back up these spurious claims. Hosmer has always had good footwork around the bag, and unless he’s been prone to poor decision making, I’m not sure what they are talking about.

Conversely and as expected, the Cubs version only highlights the positives of his career with slight reference to his drop in production since signing with the Padres.

A reasonable fan or writer might expect Hosmer to hit 25+ homers in 2023, but could fairly predict he’ll produce an average between .255-.285 and stability. However, there’s no guarantee of that either.

It’s best to consider the source when reading about players’ prospects for a given season. Most everyone has an agenda regardless of who they write for.

It’s going to be fun watching Hosmer and Trey Mancini split time at first and DH.