Cubs Rumors: Former rival keeps popping up as deadline target

Ex-rival keeps showing up in Cubs’ deadline plans
Arizona Diamondbacks v Los Angeles Angels
Arizona Diamondbacks v Los Angeles Angels | Ric Tapia/GettyImages

With the increasing likelihood that the Chicago Cubs are in the market for finding a replacement for Matt Shaw as the starting third baseman for the remainder of this season, it stands to reason that when a third baseman hits the trade market, chances are that a connection will be drawn to the Cubs. That could be one way to describe the rumor involving Yoán Moncada.

This is far from the first time the Cubs have been connected to Moncada. While the Cubs were in the middle of their pursuit of Alex Bregman last offseason, they also had an interest in signing Moncada. The Cubs were believed to have made a $3MM offer to Moncada, who signed a $5MM deal with the Angels. Given that the Angels could sell at the deadline, Moncada's name has been in the background of Cubs' rumors over the last month.

Given that the Cubs had interest in Moncada as recently as last offseason, chances are they would make a call to the Angels if he is indeed available ahead of the deadline.

The applicable injury concerns still apply for Moncada this season; he's missed time due to thumb and knee injuries, but when he's been in the Angels' lineup, he's been a key member of their offense. In 135 plate appearances this season before the All-Star break, Moncada had 7 home runs (.248 ISO) with a 122 wRC+. Moncada would be a clear offensive upgrade over Shaw at third base.

This former rival just won’t go away before the deadline

If the Cubs are determined to replace Shaw as a starter before the deadline, Moncada seemingly is the best fallback option to Eugenio Suarez. Important context is that the Cubs' priority at the deadline is to acquire a frontline starting pitcher. That could impact their pursuit of Suarez and point them in the direction of Moncada.

Moncada's reputation took a hit during the end of his run with the Chicago White Sox; however, put in the middle of a postseason push with a team that is among the best in baseball, the former top prospect likely wouldn't be opposed.

More Cubs Rumors from Cubbies Crib