Cubs Expected to Make Matt Shaw Decision Amid Interest in $70 Million Infielder

Romero also mentions that teams around baseball are monitoring Hayes as a trade target, and that he is one of the most likely players to be dealt at this year's trade deadline.

While the Cubs, thanks to Shaw, might not need a third baseman anymore, they are one of three teams linked to the Pirates' infielder. Hayes is in year six of his MLB career, and he's been one of the best fielders in baseball since his debut in 2019.

According to Baseball Savant, Hayes is 97th percentile in Fielding Run Value, and is 100th percentile (the best) in range, or Outs Above Average. However, while Hayes' defense is great, his offense is the polar opposite. His Batting Run Value is in the first percentile, as he's one of the worst hitters in baseball.

There are only two players in baseball with a lower Batting Run Value: Michael Harris II and Michael Massey. Hayes, with his -14 BRV, is third third-worst in all of baseball this season.

Across his 298 at-bats, Hayes is hitting .236/.290/.290. His OPS+ is a 62, 38 percent below a league-average hitter. His lack of offensive production is a worrisome measure, and yet, Shaw isn't a whole lot better with his 78 OPS+.

The addition of someone like Hayes would bolster a Cubs defense from good to great. Chicago would have to trade inside their division with the Pirates, but with Pittsburgh looking to shed money, the compensation might not be egregious.

While a Hayes trade isn't on the horizon, this report does paint a picture that the Cubs are looking around for third base help. Shaw, meanwhile, would be out of a starting job if the Cubs pulled off this deal.

Whether he switches positions, splits time at third, or is traded to acquire a starting pitcher or other help, a Hayes trade could force a difficult Shaw decision from the Cubs.