Matt Shaw Trade Rumors Heat Up as Eugenio Suárez Returns to the NL Central
Eugenio Suárez is back in the National League Central, and his return to Cincinnati might just have a ripple effect that reaches all the way to Chicago and Boston. With Suárez off the market, the Red Sox - who were once seen as a potential landing spot for the veteran third baseman - could now shift their attention to a younger, high-upside option: Matt Shaw of the Chicago Cubs.
Let’s unpack why this potential move is gaining steam and what it could mean for both clubs.
Boston’s Pivot: From Power Bat to Pitching Depth
After missing out on Alex Bregman - who signed with the Cubs earlier this offseason - Boston’s front office appeared to recalibrate. The initial expectation was that they’d counter by adding another big bat, potentially Suárez. But instead, the Red Sox doubled down on pitching, adding Ranger Suárez to a staff that already includes recent trade acquisition Sonny Gray.
While they were reportedly never serious contenders for Suárez before he rejoined the Reds, Boston hasn’t stopped looking for infield help. The emphasis now?
Defense over offense. That’s a notable shift in strategy, and one that opens the door for a player like Shaw, who brings both upside and versatility.
Where Matt Shaw Fits In
Shaw, a former first-round pick by the Cubs, isn’t exactly on the trading block - but he’s not untouchable either. With Bregman now entrenched at third base and Nico Hoerner holding down second, Shaw’s path to everyday playing time in Chicago is murky.
That said, the Cubs value him. He showed flashes in the second half of 2025 that hinted at a high ceiling, and his ability to play multiple infield spots makes him a strong candidate for a utility role off the bench.
Still, the Cubs are in a spot where they need to think long-term. Hoerner is set to hit free agency after this season, and while Shaw could be a natural successor, the opportunity to upgrade elsewhere - especially on the pitching side - might make him a trade chip worth moving.
Cubs’ Pitching Pipeline and the Bigger Picture
Here’s where things get interesting. The Cubs’ farm system, once among the most promising in baseball, has thinned out a bit. Between prospect graduations and the trade that sent Owen Caissie elsewhere, the system doesn’t have the same depth it once did - particularly when it comes to pitching.
After Jaxon Wiggins, there’s a noticeable drop-off in high-end arms. That’s a concern, especially with Matthew Boyd, Jameson Taillon, and Shota Imanaga all set to hit free agency next winter. The Cubs need to start replenishing that pipeline now, not later.
If a team like Boston - which has a deep pool of young pitching - comes calling with a strong offer, the Cubs have to listen. One name to watch: 23-year-old lefty Connelly Early. He’s the kind of prospect who could headline a package for Shaw, though Chicago would likely want more than just a single arm in return.
What’s Next?
There’s no guarantee a deal gets done, but the framework is there. The Red Sox need infield help and are prioritizing defense.
The Cubs could use young pitching and have a talented, controllable infielder who’s currently blocked. It’s a classic case of matching needs.
Chicago isn’t going to move Shaw just to make a move. But if Boston is serious - and willing to part with top-tier pitching talent - this is the kind of trade that could benefit both sides in the long run.
Keep an eye on this one. With Suárez off the board and Bregman in Chicago, the infield market is shifting fast - and Matt Shaw might just be the next domino to fall.