Cubs have one obvious reason to avoid Jeff Passan's Matt Shaw trade fit

With how the Chicago Cubs' season has unfolded, it wouldn't make complete sense for Matt Shaw to be traded. If he does not return to full-time starter status this season, it's become clear that finding a spot for Shaw in the starting lineup next year will be an easy way for Jed Hoyer and Co. to have a different look in the starting lineup.

Still, given the general perception of the Cubs as contenders this season with a need in their starting rotation, it stands to reason that Shaw will be a trade chip mentioned. For that reason, it's no surprise that ESPN's Jeff Passan listed Shaw at No. 25 on his list of the players most likely to be dealt at the trade deadline.

Passan notes that Shaw's club control will have value, and the idea that he probably would be best served playing every day. There's a case to make that the Cubs have reached the point where Shaw needs to be in their lineup more times than not, but there's also no denying that he will be among the first players asked about in trade talks.

One Matt Shaw trade fit is not like the others

The expectation is that Shaw would have a healthy amount of interest. Passan suggests the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Tampa Bay Rays, Kansas City Royals, Toronto Blue Jays, and San Francisco Giants would all be fits for Shaw. He also mentions one team that can probably be ruled out immediately, the Milwaukee Brewers.

In vacuum, it makes sense. The Brewers could stand to upgrade at third base before the deadline, and Shaw is the profile of the type of player that would thrive in Milwaukee. That is where the conversation ends.

While the Brewers have a number of pitching prospects that would be of interest to the Cubs, there's almost no scenario where these two rivals would come together on this type of trade, let alone, a small one. The last thing the Cubs need is to see Shaw go on to become a superstar with the very team they are chasing.

In looking for an ideal Shaw trade fit, the Cubs may want to give the Los Angeles Angels a call. The Angels have a pair of controllable starters who could be shopped in Jose Soriano and Reid Detmers, and could stand to use a high-upside position player with control like Shaw. If the Cubs do trade Shaw this summer, that is the type of trade it will be. Anything else would be a mistake for the Cubs' front office.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow