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The Chicago Cubs may be preparing for a major shakeup at third base heading into the 2026 MLB season. A new round of free agency rumors has connected the team to power-hitting veteran Eugenio Suárez, raising significant questions about where rookie Matt Shaw fits within the organization’s future plans. As MLB insider Francys Romero reported on X, the Cubs are actively evaluating third-base options, and Suárez has emerged as a name gaining traction.
Cubs Exploring Third-Base Market for 2026
Romero shared an update that has quickly generated buzz among Cubs fans and analysts. As originally reported by Billy Heyen, Romero posted:“The Cubs continue to explore the third-base market in free agency, and Eugenio Suárez is one of the names to watch in the coming days, according to multiple sources.”This potential move marks a sharp pivot from the Cubs’ 2025 approach. They opened the season with Matt Shaw as their starting third baseman, signaling confidence in the young player’s development. But the current rumors suggest Chicago may be looking for more immediate, veteran power at the hot corner.
Suárez’s 2025 Power Surge
Here’s a quick breakdown of Suárez’s offensive production last season:Team Home Runs in 2025 NotesArizona Diamondbacks 36 HR Included a four-HR gameSeattle Mariners 13 HR Added after July trade deadlineTotal 49 HR One of the most powerful bats availableSuárez’s 49 home runs between his time in Arizona and Seattle showcase exactly why the Cubs might be targeting him. Few players in the league offer his combination of durability and raw power.
What a Suárez Signing Means for Matt Shaw
The biggest storyline surrounding this rumor centers on Shaw. After spending 2025 adjusting to the majors, he now faces the possibility of losing his primary position.Shaw did receive time at second base last season, but that creates another issue: second belongs to Nico Hoerner. Moving Shaw there full-time would require Hoerner to shift or, more drastically, be traded. Either path would create ripple effects through the infield.
Possible Outcomes for Shaw
• Shaw moves to second base, forcing Hoerner into a new role • Hoerner becomes a trade candidate • Shaw himself becomes a trade chip • Cubs stash Shaw in a utility role temporarily • Further roster shuffling accompanies a Suárez signingAt this stage, nothing is clear. But what is certain is that adding Suárez would not be a simple plug-and-play transaction. It would signal deeper structural decisions to come.
Would Suárez Be a Good Fit for Chicago?
From a performance standpoint, the answer is yes. Suárez brings veteran presence, proven power, and postseason experience. His 2025 numbers alone show he remains an elite home run threat, and Chicago struggled with offensive consistency throughout parts of last season.Potential Advantages of Signing Suárez • Elite home run production • Veteran leadership for a young infield • Immediate upgrade at third base • Flexibility to use Shaw as a trade asset • Increased lineup protection for other hittersHowever, the move would inevitably create an infield logjam, and the Cubs would have to address it quickly to avoid development roadblocks or clubhouse uncertainty.
Infield Picture if Cubs Sign Suárez
Here’s how the infield depth chart could be affected:Position Current Option Issue if Suárez SignsThird Base Matt Shaw Suárez overtakes positionSecond Base Nico Hoerner Blocked path for ShawShortstop Existing starter UnaffectedUtility Open Shaw may be placed here temporarily
A Move That Would Trigger More Moves
On paper, the fit makes sense. Suárez’s bat would give Chicago a significant boost, and the Cubs are clearly signaling an aggressive approach for 2026. But signing him would be just the beginning, not the end, of their offseason activity.As Billy Heyen notes, adding Suárez would likely force the Cubs into additional roster moves to resolve their crowded infield and define Shaw’s future. The front office has big decisions to make if talks with Suárez progress.Also read: MLB trade rumors: New York Mets potentially eyeing $7.7 million Boston Red Sox All-Star in blockbuster outfield shakeupIf the Cubs truly intend to pursue the 49-home-run slugger, fans should expect an eventful offseason ahead.