In an effort to further elevate the Cubs’ already promising potential, the team is bringing back top prospect Matt Shaw. However, his return to the major league roster means someone else must be moved. Cubs president Jed Hoyer is working on resolving that issue, ideally by turning it into a chance to gain a future asset.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post and MLB Network, the Cubs are actively shopping utility infielder Nicky Lopez. His absence from the team’s trip to face the Miami Marlins signals that his short stint in Chicago may be coming to an end.
Cubs press ahead with their plan
Lopez joined the Cubs in late April after being designated for assignment by the Angels. He has struggled at the plate, hitting just .056 in 18 at-bats, making him an expendable piece. Still, the Cubs believe his defensive skills might attract interest from teams needing depth—especially as injuries inevitably hit across the league.
Lopez, a 2016 fifth-round pick, understands his role at this point in his career and will likely find another team where he can serve as a fill-in. Meanwhile, Shaw’s brief time at Triple-A Iowa appears to have paid off. Though his initial MLB showing was disappointing (.172 average, 18 strikeouts, .241 slugging in 18 games), his recent Triple-A stats—.286/.409/.560 with six home runs—make a strong case for his return.
Shaw now joins a productive Cubs lineup that includes Kyle Tucker, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Dansby Swanson, Seiya Suzuki, and Michael Busch. If he can contribute more consistently at the plate, he could be a key factor in helping the Cubs compete with top-tier National League teams like the Dodgers and Mets. As Shaw gets ready for his second shot at the majors, Lopez awaits the next step in his career.