The Chicago Cubs have their work cut out for them, especially involving utility Matt Shaw. Given that he has been on the injured list, there are rumblings that he may not stay too long.
The Cubs are in a unique situation, as their farm system is struggling, and Shaw hasn’t shown much production, per Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. Therefore, Chicago may look to trade Shaw.
Shaw is coming off a 2025 rookie season in which he batted .226 with 89 hits, 13 home runs, and 47 RBIs. There was much anticipation about what he could do going forward. Then, the Cubs chose to sign free agent Alex Bregman and sign Nico Hoerner to a six-year extension.
As a result, Shaw has made only 104 plate appearances in 2026. He is currently batting .242 with 23 hits, 3 home runs, and 12 RBIs.
So the question remains as to what the future has in store for him. Even though he can play the outfield from time to time, Shaw’s sweet spot is in the infield. Given that Hoerner and Bregman have command, Shaw’s options are limited. Even with Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki heading for free agency at season’s end, Shaw is likely wanting to remain in the infield.
Meanwhile, the Cubs’ farm system has seen a drastic decline. They went from being ranked No.2 in 2024 MLB Pipeline to No. 23 in 2026. Therefore, the Cubs may look to deal a player such as Shaw to get what they need: a starting pitcher.
Also, since Shaw has been on the injured list, Chicago has had Pedro Ramirez fill in.
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