The Chicago Cubs are just a few short days away from the beginning of Spring Training. Like many other Major League Baseball teams though, they still are looking for the final pieces of what will be their 2026 Opening Day roster. Indeed, in the coming weeks, there may yet be some late free agent signings or possible trades made.
However, the Cubs already have their young core established. With the likes of Nico Hoerner and Matt Shaw in place, Chicago once again is poised to have one of the best defensive infields in the Majors. Additionally, both are capable hitters with Shaw looking to become even better after his rookie season in 2025.
All this to say that both players being named in trade rumors at this point in the off-season is very confusing.
Chicago Cubs infielder Nico Hoerner and Matt Shaw are being targeted by the Boston Red Sox
Jun 24, 2025; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner (2) reacts after hitting a two run home run against the St. Louis Cardinals during the sixth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images
According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Boston Red Sox are apparently interested in acquiring Hoerner, Shaw, or both players via trade yet this off-season:
“[The Cubs] have been listening in on star second baseman Nico Hoerner, who’s entering his walk year, and second-year infielder Matt Shaw, with Boston a possible fit since they are trying to improve their infield and have an extra outfielder.”
It is no secret that Chicago has been listening to offers on Hoerner all off-season. This is because he will be a free agent after the 2026 season. However, one would have to imagine that the price is high. After all, he is a two-time Gold Glove winner at second base. Additionally, he hit .297/.345/.394 last season.
The fact of the matter is that, at this point, the Cubs are likely planning on keeping Hoerner for the final year of his contract unless they get an offer so mind-blowing that they cannot turn it down.
Similarly, Shaw is just 24 years old and coming off a year which saw him finish ninth in NL Rookie of the Year voting. He has years of club control ahead of him. Therefore, Chicago should not be so quick to cut him loose in a trade.
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