Cubs Rumors: Early Matt Shaw struggles may force a quick rethink

For as much as Matt Shaw still has the impression of being the Chicago Cubs' long-term answer at third base, given the expectations of the 2025 season, it would seem likely that the Cubs will look to add some third base insurance before the Major League Baseball Trade Deadline. Of course, if the Cubs acquire a target like Eugenio Suarez, Suarez would likely be viewed as the starter at third base for the remainder of the season. However, several options could elevate the floor of the bench.

Over at North Side Baseball, Matthew Trueblood has some early names to keep an eye on. Trueblood reports that Luis Urias of the Athletics and Willi Castro are two trade targets that the Cubs have checked in on recently.

The Athletics are one of the clear sellers ahead of the deadline, and given the familiarity with Craig Counsell, Urias is a logical fit. An ability to also play second base and shortstop, Urias would be an ideal replacement on the roster for Vidal Bruján. In 230 plate appearances this season, Urias is slashing .253/.339/.394/106 OPS+ with 7 home runs.

Cubs quietly hunting for bench help before trade buzz explodes

Entering June, it seemed that the Minnesota Twins were going to be buyers ahead of the deadline. However, their season has since gone off the rails and is quickly becoming one of the worst teams in baseball. Now, it would seem that the Twins are going to be sellers, and for teams like the Cubs, looking for bench help, Castro is an ideal target. Like Urias, Casto plays second base, third base, and shortstop. He also has experience in the outfield.

This season, Castro has quietly made a case to be in the All-Star game. Through 218 plate appearances this season, Castro is slashing .280/.362/.456 with 7 home runs. His 127 OPS+ would instantly make him the best option on the Cubs' bench, and if we're being honest, pushing Shaw for starts at third base.

The same conversation that is being had with Ben Brown can apply to Shaw. Shaw is a core piece to the long-term future of the Cubs, but for this season, the Cubs' priority needs to be on winning games. Even if that means Shaw isn't their starting third baseman.

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