CHICAGO — A major upheaval is brewing within the Cubs as Matt Shaw — who just had a rough rookie season — is facing the possibility of losing his starting spot at third base. Insider reports suggest the Cubs are aggressively targeting Alex Bregman, opening up a scenario where if Bregman arrives at Wrigley Field, Shaw will likely be demoted or relegated to a backup role — or worse, temporarily moved to second base.
Shaw — the No. 13 overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft — is considered “the future of the Cubs’ hot corner.”
But the 2025 season has been rocky at times: after a rough start to his MLB career, he was sent down to Triple-A midseason to adjust.
What’s noteworthy: Shaw has had a remarkable “transformation” since the All-Star break. In 205 at-bats after the break, he hit .258/.317/.522, with a series of extra-base hits, slugging efficiency, and solid defense — among the best third basemen in the league.
However, Cubs management and many fans still feel “not enough” to put their trust in him long-term at this key position.
Insider sources revealed that the Cubs are closely pursuing Alex Bregman — a prominent free agent at third base — as a restructuring move to increase offensive power and stabilize the hot infield.
That means Shaw could lose his starting position. One notable insider comment:
“Shaw’s field is good, but his bat is not good. If we have the opportunity to upgrade the hot corner, we will not hesitate.”
Some observers even predict that Shaw could be relegated to second base — especially if Nico Hoerner leaves after 2026.
Scenario 1 — Shaw gets a “retry”: If he continues to develop defensively, maintain his offensive tempo, and show improvement, the Cubs could keep him in the starting role — with a support system around him to ease the pressure.
Scenario 2 — Demoted or parted ways: If the Cubs bring in Bregman or another veteran, Shaw could lose his starting role, or be pushed to second base/reserve — or even become a “trading piece” in the upcoming trade window.
One MLB analyst commented:
“This is a make-or-break year for Matt Shaw. There’s no room for an apprentice anymore.”
More than half of the 2025 season has seen Shaw’s memorable moments — explosive strikes, “miraculous” catches, and dynamism on the field. Many still want the team to “trust the future.” But many disagree, saying the Cubs need a more consistent 3B to compete in the 2026 Playoffs.
One fan wrote:
“I love Matt, he’s the future. But if we want to win — the Cubs need a name that’s willing to take the pressure.”
Another fan countered:
“Don’t give up on a gem just because he needs more time to polish.”
This winter could shape Matt Shaw’s future — for him, or for the Cubs. If he fails, Shaw’s name could disappear from the hot corner of Wrigley Field. If he succeeds — he could become one of the “backbones” of the rebuilding team, part of a Cubs team looking to the future.
One thing’s for sure: The Cubs are at a major crossroads — and all eyes are on Matt Shaw.
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