Unexpected Cubs' prospect might be the team's next answer at third base

As the Chicago Cubs wait for Matt Shaw to regain his form at Triple-A Iowa, the Cubs are rolling out a revolving door at third base at the Major League level.

With Gage Workman no longer a part of the equation, the Cubs are shuffling between veterans Jon Berti, Vidal Bruján, and Nicky Lopez at the hot corner. It's a far cry from their pursuit of Alex Bregman at the end of the offseason.

While Shaw's recent hot stretch with the Iowa Cubs has put it back in play that he may be back with the Major League team by the start of June, the team is ensuring that another prospect is ready if called upon.

Tommy Birch covers the Iowa Cubs and reports that the Cubs are having prospect Jonathon Long take reps at third base.

Jonathaon Long could be a prospect Cubs fans see soon at Wrigley Field

Prior to the Cubs signing Justin Turner during Spring Training, there was a feeling that Long may sneak onto the Cubs' roster as the backup to Michael Busch at first base. Instead, Long opened the season with the Iowa Cubs. Even now, it would seem that Long wouldn't be the first man up in the event of an injury to Busch or Turner; that would likely be Moises Ballesteros.

However, if the Cubs do continue to look for answers at third base, Long could get the call. Long was a ninth-round pick of the Cubs during the 2023 MLB Draft. Since being drafted by the Cubs, Long has raked at every level of the organization. With the Iowa Cubs this offseason, Long is slashing .338/.427/.442/137wRC+ through 90 plate appearances.

Outside of first and third base, Long has seen time in left field throughout his time in the Cubs' minor-league system. Given his ability to play the corner infield as well as in the outfield, it would seem that Long will make his way to Wrigley Field before the end of the season.