At the start of the season, the Chicago Cubs had high hopes for rookie third baseman Matt Shaw, their top prospect, to take over the position. Shaw impressed in spring training and earned a spot on the Opening Day roster, with expectations that he would get the bulk of the playing time at third base. However, Shaw struggled early in the season, posting a disappointing .172 batting average in 58 at-bats over 18 games. His struggles ultimately led to a demotion to Triple-A Iowa, where the Cubs hope he can regain his confidence and refine the skills he displayed last season and during spring training.
With Shaw no longer on the major league roster, the Cubs have turned to several other players in an attempt to fill the void at third base. Jon Berti, Justin Turner, Gage Workman, and Vidal Bruján have all received starts at the hot corner, but none of them have emerged as a consistent solution. As a result, third base remains a key position of uncertainty for Chicago, and they may be looking to make a trade to solidify the spot.
Here are three potential trade targets the Cubs should consider to help address this ongoing issue:
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his career. The combination of Devers and Tucker hitting second and third in the order would undoubtedly create a potent duo that would pose a serious threat to opposing pitchers.
2. Nolan Arenado (St. Louis Cardinals)
Arenado was frequently mentioned as a trade candidate during the offseason, and with the Cardinals not looking like strong contenders for a playoff spot this season, he may be available again near the trade deadline. Although a trade between the Cubs and the Cardinals is unlikely, it has happened before, and Arenado would have to waive his no-trade clause for such a move to happen. If the Cubs could land Arenado, it would be a huge acquisition, as he is one of the best defensive third basemen in the game and provides solid offensive production.
His addition could significantly strengthen the Cubs’ lineup and defense;
3. Ryan McMahon (Colorado Rockies)
McMahon has had a rough start to the season, batting just .195 and leading the majors in strikeouts with 35. Despite his poor batting average, McMahon’s .313 on-base percentage and 13 walks show that he is still able to find ways to reach base. This season appears to be an anomaly for McMahon, who has been a consistent contributor in the past, hitting over 20 home runs and 20 doubles in each of the last five full seasons.
A change of scenery from the struggling Rockies to a division-leading Cubs team could provide McMahon with the spark he needs to get his season back on track.
Given the struggles at third base and the potential trade targets, the Cubs are in a position where acquiring one of these players could solidify a major position of need and help strengthen their lineup for the remainder of the season.