The Cubs and Pirates are eyeing each other for a potential deadline deal that makes perfect sense on paper. Chicago needs pitching help badly, while Pittsburgh’s looking to upgrade at third base.
Enter Matt Shaw.
The Cubs’ top prospect fits exactly what the Pirates need, and Pittsburgh’s got the pitching depth Chicago’s hunting for. It’s the kind of division trade that doesn’t happen often, but when the needs line up this clearly, front offices start having conversations.
“If the Cubs are willing to trade Shaw within the division, Pittsburgh has the right mix of pitching depth and offensive need to strike up a conversation,” Christopher Kline wrote for FanSided. “Veteran workhorse Mitch Keller has been a staple in trade rumors for a couple years now, while minor-league arms like Hunter Barco, Antwone Kelly and Thomas Harrington could all hold appeal for Chicago as developmental bets.”
Now, there’s some reality to consider here. The Pirates probably aren’t rushing to move proven big league arms for Shaw, who’s still working to establish himself at the major league level. He’s shown flashes, but Pittsburgh’s going to want more certainty in return for rotation pieces.
That said, some of those Pittsburgh starters haven’t exactly locked down their spots either.
What makes this interesting is how the timeline works for both clubs. The Cubs are trying to stay competitive now while their core’s still together. The Pirates are building something but need to fill holes as they go. Shaw could be that immediate third base solution Pittsburgh’s been seeking, while Chicago gets the pitching depth that’s been holding them back.
It’s one of those trades that makes too much sense to ignore, even if division rivals usually prefer dealing elsewhere. Sometimes the best fit is right next door.
