The Chicago Cubs have a 3 1/2 game lead in the National League Central, entering play on Tuesday. However, they could be aggressive at the trade deadline to ensure a division title.

The Cubs have needs in the starting rotation, but they could target an infielder. Matt Shaw started the year at third base. He was sent down, but now he is back. However, he may not be the key to the Cubs making a run this year. FanSided’s Zachary Rotman predicted he would not be on the roster after the trade deadline.

Advertisement

“There are few weaknesses in this talented and deep Cubs lineup, but third base has been one all season long,” wrote Rotman. “Cubs’ third basemen rank 29th in the majors with a 59 WRC+ and last with -0.5 fWAR. That isn’t all Shaw’s fault, but he’s obviously played there far more than anybody else. Giving Shaw the rest of the season to improve in a low-pressure environment like Triple-A while replacing him with a veteran upgrade to help them down the stretch could prove to be useful not only for the 2025 Cubs, but for Shaw – a player who should play a key role in this team in the future.”

Shaw is still a young player and figures to be a part of the Cubs’ future. However, he clearly needs more development in order to contribute consistently in the big leagues.

He has a .207/.288/.293 slash line with two home runs on the season. His overall numbers simply are not good enough. The Cubs have a talented team, and a hole at third base could hold them back.

Follow The Sporting News On WhatsApp

The Cubs have reportedly already started checking in on the third base market. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, they have “expressed interest” in Ke’Bryan Hayes.

More MLB: Braves make Ronald Acuña Jr. trade decision