Cubs Must Address the Hot Corner, and Fast

One name flying under the radar is Ryan McMahon of the Colorado Rockies. He is quietly putting together a good season, showing consistent power and improved plate discipline. McMahon would not come cheap, as he is under contract through 2027, but his left-handed bat and defensive versatility make him an appealing fit.

Adding McMahon would give the Cubs a steady, everyday presence at third base who can also fill in at second if needed. His power plays at Wrigley and his experience in a rebuilding Rockies system could make him open to a bigger stage. The cost in prospects would be higher than a rental, but the return could be worth it.

Ke’Bryan Hayes Brings Defense and Control

Another intriguing name is Ke’Bryan Hayes of the Pirates. While his bat has not always been consistent, his glove is elite, and he has shown enough offensive upside to believe there is more there. Hayes is also under team control for several more seasons, which would give the Cubs stability at a premium position. This is if they want Matt Shaw to further develop in Triple-A.

The trade price would be high, and Pittsburgh may hesitate to move him inside the division, but the long-term appeal is real. Hayes would not just help in 2025; he could anchor the left side of the infield well beyond that.

Eugenio Suárez Would Be the Big Swing

If the Cubs want to make a real statement, Eugenio Suárez might be the best available bat at third. His power is still legit, he leads all third basemen in RBI, and he has proven he can deliver in high-leverage spots. Suárez would step into the middle of the Cubs’ lineup and give them even more production than what would be with a guy like Shaw.

The appeal here is obvious. He brings thunder to a lineup that needs it and would not block Shaw long term, since he is likely a rental. Arizona is reportedly open to moving him, and the price tag is more manageable than some of the longer-term options. If the Cubs are looking to land an instant-impact bat without overpaying, Suárez checks all the boxes. Mr. Cubs killer would instantly be forgiven the second the fans see him in the Cubbie pinstripes.

No Time to Wait

The Cubs have internal momentum, a solid rotation, and a fan base hungry for a postseason return. However, third base has become a clear weak spot, one that the team cannot ignore much longer. There are several directions they could go, from a short-term boost to a franchise-changing piece.

Whatever the path, one thing is certain. If Chicago wants to be playing meaningful baseball in October, it starts by fixing third base before the trade deadline.

Who would you trade for if you were Jed Hoyer?

Let us know. Tweet us at @CubbiesOnTap!