Chicago Cubs consider trading infielder Matt Shaw for starting pitching

The Chicago Cubs, atop the NL Central with a 29‑18 record, are confronting a depleted starting rotation after injuries to Justin Steele, Matthew Boyd and Cade Horton. Management is exploring a front‑line starter at the trade deadline and has identified 24‑year‑old infielder Matt Shaw as a potential trade chip. Shaw, blocked at third base by Alex Bregman and at second by Nico Hoerner, has seen his playing time drop to 22 starts this season. He has posted a .245 batting average, an OPS near .700, 12 RBIs and three homers, and is under team control with six years left on his contract and a modest $804,500 salary.

Cubs officials note the depth of their lineup—featuring Moisés Ballesteros, Michael Conforto, Ian Happ, Seiya Suzuki and Alex Bregman—provides flexibility to move Shaw. Trade scenarios discussed in media circles include deals with the San Francisco Giants, New York Mets or Seattle Mariners, where a veteran starter could be acquired in exchange for Shaw. The speculation mirrors a 2016 move that sent Gleyber Torres to the Yankees for closer Aroldis Chapman. Sports writer Bob Nightengale and other commentators have highlighted the urgency of the Cubs’ situation as the NL Central race tightens.