Cubs Facing Matt Shaw Decision After Trade Report

Only starting 22 games this year, Shaw is hitting .256 with a .728 OPS and three home runs. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Cubs could ultimately consider moving Shaw ahead of the MLB trade deadline as the organization continues searching for additional pitching help for a postseason push.

"The Chicago Cubs, who are seeking a front-line starter at the trade deadline, may have no choice but to move infielder Matt Shaw, who’s blocked at third base by Alex Bregman and second base by Nico Hoerner. He has been in the starting lineup just 22 times this season,” reported Nightengale in a recent article. 

With the trade deadline approaching, the Cubs are facing a decision on whether or not they should move Shaw if an opportunity to acquire an elite starting pitcher presents itself.

Shaw entered the season as one of the organization’s top young infielders and a potential long-term piece of Chicago’s future. After playing in 126 games in the 2025 season, Shaw was expected to remain the primary third baseman for Chicago in the 2026 campaign. However, the signing of former Gold Glove Award winner Alex Bregman to a five-year, $175 million deal altered the Cubs’ infield picture. 

With Bregman at third base and Hoerner at second, Shaw has had his opportunities greatly reduced in a crowded infield lineup. As the Cubs continue pushing toward postseason contention and searching for additional pitching help, Shaw could emerge as one of the organization’s more valuable trade assets ahead of the summer deadline.