Spring Training is now days away for the Chicago Cubs, an exciting time for all involved. The Cubs are hopeful they’ll play much better in 2025, and fans are, too. 2024 is behind Chicago, and while it was one of the most disappointing campaigns in recent memory, the talent is undeniable for the Cubs. There will be battles to be won during Spring Training, mainly at third base. Youngster Matt Shaw is considered the favorite, but others could win the job.

On top of that, Patrick Mooney of The Athletic revealed that unless Alex Bregman signs with the Cubs, Shaw should win the job. “He’s the favorite to be the Opening Day third baseman if the Cubs don’t sign Bregman,” Mooney wrote. Bregman signing would certainly play an impact on Shaw, perhaps something Chicago wants to avoid. If the Cubs believe their top prospect is ready to play, handing over a $150-plus million deal for an aging third baseman wouldn’t make much sense.

On the flip side, if the Cubs want to win a World Series, and they believe Bregman would help them get closer to that, he could be the better signing. Shaw has dominated the minors, slashing .303/.384/.522 in 600 career MiLB at-bats. Keeping him In the minors doesn’t do anyone any good at this stage of his career.