Cubs manager David Ross confirmed Friday that Hosmer will serve in a bench role moving forward, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hosmer's move to the bench comes in the wake of the Cubs calling up top prospect Matt Mervis from Triple-A Iowa. Mervis will start at first base Friday against the Marlins in his MLB debut, and he's expected to operate as the Cubs' primary option at that spot while Trey Mancini serves as the team's designated hitter. Hosmer has retained his spot on the roster for now, but it's difficult to see him fitting with the Cubs over the long haul with Mervis now around.