The Chicago Cubs could be in the market for an upgrade at third base. While Matt Shaw could still be the future at the position, he is not going to help them win right now.
Shaw started the season in the big leagues and was sent down after struggling. Even now that he is back, he has not shown much improvement at the plate. Defensively, he has been an asset. He is slashing .200/.278/.283 through 230 trips to the plate. The Cubs could lose Kyle Tucker in free agency, so there is extra urgency to win this season.
For the time being, the Cubs need a third baseman who will not create a void in their lineup. FanSided’s Aldo Soto suggested the Cubs trade for Minnesota Twins infielder Willi Castro.
“The 28-year-old is set to become a free agent after 2025, won’t cost an arm and a leg and has the positional versatility that would provide more flexibility in the final few months of the season for the Cubs,” wrote Soto. “Castro may not have the same allure as (Eugenio) Suarez, but the switch-hitter is quietly putting up a strong year at the plate. In 71 games with the Twins, Castro has recorded a 124 wRC+, slashing .266/.359/.432, while starting at second base, third base, shortstop, right field, and left so far in 2025.”
Castro is only making $6.4 million this year. He is projected to earn a three-year, $34 million deal in free agency after the season. If the Cubs like what they see, they could keep him around, as he has the ability to play all over the field.
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He would be great insurance in case Shaw still has not figured things out next season. If Shaw has, Castro could find a spot in the lineup at different positions on a regular basis. He was an All-Star last season, but his numbers are better this season than they were a year ago.
