4 Cubs players suddenly facing increased playoff pressure after Alex Bregman's injury

Nothing is official, but the Chicago Cubs are in a position where they might have to wonder what the NL Wild Card series will look like without Alex Bregman available. After getting hit in the face with a foul ball during Sunday's victory over the Cincinnati Reds, Bregman's status for the playoffs is uncertain.

The Cubs could find themselves in the position they were hoping to avoid this October, being forced to go through the start of the playoffs without Bregman on their roster. If that's the case, there's suddenly several Cubs players facing increased pressure.

Here are the Cubs players suddenly carrying more responsibility after Alex Bregman's injury

Matt Shaw

Matt Shaw had a rollercoaster rookie season with the Cubs in 2025, and his sophomore season has been riddled with injuries and trade rumors. Shaw was a Gold Glove finalist at third base last year, and considering the value the Cubs place on infield defense, it would seem likely that he gets the primary nod at third base if Bregman is indeed going to miss the start of the playoffs.

What can't happen is Shaw looking lost offensively like he was last October. Shaw collected only two hits across 23 playoff plate appearances last season. He also struck out seven times.

Pedro Ramirez

Even if Shaw gets first dibs at replacing Bregman at third base, it would seem likely that Pedro Ramirez gets the start against right-handed pitchers. Ramirez has certainly been better against left-handed pitchers this season, but his switch-hitting capabilities allow for the Cubs being able to avoid having to use Shaw against righties.

Nico Hoerner

With the return of Dansby Swanson, Nico Hoerner has returned to second base. No, in Bregman's absence, Hoerner won't be asked to play third base. But if the Cubs are going to navigate the playoffs waters with Bregman in the starting lineup, they will need Hoerner to continue the production he's had since the All-Star break. Hoerner is hitting over .300 since the break, and among the league-leaders in hits. It's the version of Hoerner the Cubs saw for most of the 2025 season, and who they will need to continue to see heading into the playoffs.

Pete Crow-Armstrong

This one is simple. Pete Crow-Armstrong is going to be the National League MVP this season, and with the season he's having, it's enough to carry the Cubs without Bregman. The only thing that must be avoided is Crow-Armstrong disappearing like he did last October.

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