As the Chicago Cubs approach the critical final weeks of the MLB season, they face a pressing decision concerning their offensive lineup. Rookie Matt Shaw has impressed with a hot streak since the All-Star break, yet the team’s leadership, led by President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer, is considering acquiring slugger Eugenio Suárez from the Arizona Diamondbacks to strengthen their playoff chances. This potential move centers around securing additional power to compete effectively in the National League Central.
Matt Shaw’s Recent Hot Streak and Overall Performance
Following the All-Star break, Matt Shaw has demonstrated remarkable consistency at the plate, producing a slash line of .444/.474/1.000 over the past week. Within this period, he launched four home runs, showing flashes of his promising offensive capabilities. However, his season statistics remain modest, with a .226 batting average, .296 on-base percentage, and .359 slugging percentage. While Shaw’s defensive skills and youthful energy remain valuable, his power numbers trail those of Suárez significantly.
Eugenio Suárez’s Impact as a Proven Power Hitter
Eugenio Suárez, aged 34, has emerged as a formidable power presence this season, boasting 36 home runs, 87 RBIs, and a robust .247/.319/.579 slash line across 104 games as a two-time All-Star. The Cubs see Suárez as a player who could transform their lineup, giving them the extra firepower needed to stay competitive against strong divisional opponents. His reputation as a consistent run producer is underscored by his career totals against Chicago, which include 36 home runs and 94 RBIs over 132 games, highlighting the potential leverage he could provide.
Competition for Suárez Intensifies with Rival Teams
The Cubs’ pursuit of Suárez is complicated by interest from division rivals like the Milwaukee Brewers, increasing the urgency for Chicago to act decisively. While some league officials express doubt about Suárez maintaining his current level of production due to typical regression trends, a team source offered a different perspective, stating,
“Sometimes, it’s just your year,”
—Team Source underscoring the belief that his current output could be sustainable.
Options for Managing Matt Shaw’s Role After Adding Suárez
If the Cubs acquire Suárez, Matt Shaw’s role may shift despite his recent success. Jed Hoyer could opt to send Shaw back to Triple-A Iowa to develop further or retain him as a bench option to bolster a historically weak offensive reserve. Shaw offers useful versatility as a defensive late-inning substitute and as a pinch hitter, roles that could complement Suárez’s impact starting at third base. Additionally, given the current slump experienced by Ian Happ, there’s potential for lineup adjustments that could involve resting Happ, moving Seiya Suzuki to left field, and using Suárez as a designated hitter.
Balancing Offensive Needs with Pitching Priorities
Beyond offensive upgrades, the Cubs are also seeking to improve their pitching staff. A trade that brings in Suárez might include negotiations for pitchers like Zac Gallen or Merrill Kelly, addressing multiple team needs with one deal. As the trade deadline nears, Hoyer’s decisions will be critical in ensuring the Cubs are well-positioned to remain contenders in the playoffs.
Potential Impact on Cubs’ Postseason Aspirations
The Cubs stand at a crossroads, weighing the youthful promise of Matt Shaw against the proven power of Eugenio Suárez. Adding a veteran slugger like Suárez could provide a much-needed offensive boost, especially in a tightly contested division, while also presenting challenges in managing emerging talent. With the playoff race intensifying, the next few weeks will be decisive in shaping Chicago’s postseason outlook and how they balance immediate gains with future development.