The Chicago Cubs appear poised for a significant strategic shift at third base as they build their roster for the 2026 Major League Baseball season. Fresh speculation in the free agency market links the storied franchise to veteran power hitter Eugenio Suárez, a move that casts immediate uncertainty over the future role of promising rookie Matt Shaw.
Cubs Actively Scouting Third Base Options
According to a report from MLB insider Francys Romero on the social media platform X, the Cubs' front office is diligently evaluating potential upgrades at the hot corner. Romero, citing information originally surfaced by Billy Heyen, indicated that Eugenio Suárez has emerged as a prominent name gaining serious traction within the organization's discussions. This marks a notable departure from the team's strategy just a year prior in 2025, when they entrusted the starting third base job to the developing Matt Shaw, showcasing their faith in the young player's growth.
Suárez's Formidable 2025 Power Display
The Cubs' reported interest in Suárez is firmly rooted in his explosive offensive performance last season. The veteran slugger split his 2025 campaign between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Seattle Mariners, amassing a staggering total of 49 home runs. His time in Arizona was particularly dominant, where he launched 36 homers, a feat that included a remarkable four-home-run game. After a mid-season trade to Seattle, he added another 13 to his tally. This prodigious power output makes Suárez one of the most coveted bats available, offering a blend of proven run production and durability that Chicago's lineup lacked at times last season.
Ripple Effects and Matt Shaw's Uncertain Path
The potential acquisition of Suárez is far from a straightforward transaction; it would trigger a cascade of decisions regarding the Cubs' infield alignment. The most pressing question revolves around the fate of Matt Shaw. After a full season of adjustment in the majors, Shaw now faces the prospect of being displaced from his primary position.
While Shaw saw some action at second base in 2025, that path is currently blocked by the established presence of Gold Glove-caliber player Nico Hoerner. A Suárez signing would force the Cubs into a difficult choice:
- Permanently shift Shaw to second base, thereby moving Hoerner to another position like shortstop or a utility role.
- Explore the trade market for Nico Hoerner to clear space for Shaw.
- Consider trading Matt Shaw himself to address other roster needs.
- Utilize Shaw in a temporary super-utility role while managing the infield logjam.
Each scenario carries significant implications for the team's chemistry and long-term planning.
Evaluating the Fit for the Cubs
From a pure performance perspective, Suárez represents a clear upgrade. He would provide elite home run production, veteran leadership, and valuable postseason experience to a relatively young Cubs core. His presence would also offer lineup protection for other hitters and give the front office optionality with Shaw as a potential trade asset.
However, the move comes with inherent complications. The resulting infield congestion would need to be resolved swiftly to prevent stunting player development or creating discord. If Suárez is signed, the Cubs' infield depth chart would see immediate upheaval, with Shaw likely moving to a utility spot or forcing a chain reaction of positional changes.
As noted by analysts, signing Eugenio Suárez would be merely the opening act of the Cubs' offseason. It would necessitate further roster maneuvers to clarify roles and define the team's competitive window. For Cubs fans, the pursuit of the 49-home-run slugger signals an aggressive intent for 2026 but also promises a complex and eventful winter of speculation and change.
