Shaw Seems Like Obvious Trade Candidate as Cubs Prepare for Suzuki's Return

Cabrera and Bregman Start Strong, Bucknor Out of His Depth as Umpire

Apr. 1, 2026 at 3:37pm

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The Cubs should look to trade versatile infielder Matt Shaw before his value drops, as Seiya Suzuki's return will limit his playing time. Meanwhile, the Brewers' late-game heroics continue to frustrate Cubs fans, and umpire CB Bucknor has drawn criticism for a particularly egregious call.

Why it matters

Dealing Shaw now could net the Cubs a solid return, as he's a valuable trade chip with his ability to play multiple infield positions. The team also needs to make room for top prospect Jefferson Rojas, who is knocking on the door. Elsewhere in the NL Central, the Brewers' penchant for comebacks is an ongoing source of frustration for the Cubs, while Bucknor's poor umpiring is drawing league-wide attention.

The details

Cubs infielder Matt Shaw had a surprisingly strong rookie season, but with Seiya Suzuki set to return from injury, his playing time is likely to decrease. The Cubs should look to trade Shaw now, as his versatility and potential make him an enticing target for teams like the Mariners, Angels, and Dodgers. Meanwhile, the Brewers continued their knack for late-game heroics, rallying to beat the Rays. Umpire CB Bucknor also drew criticism for a particularly egregious call at first base, with players from both teams laughing at the mistake.

  • Seiya Suzuki will go on a rehab assignment when the Cubs begin their six-game road trip on Friday.
  • The Cubs haven't decided whether Suzuki will go to Iowa or Tennessee, or how long the assignment will be.

The players

Matt Shaw

A versatile Cubs infielder who had a strong rookie season and could be an enticing trade target for other teams.

Seiya Suzuki

The Cubs outfielder who is set to return from injury, which will limit Shaw's playing time.

Jefferson Rojas

A top Cubs prospect who is knocking on the door and will need playing time in the infield.

CB Bucknor

An MLB umpire who has drawn criticism for a particularly egregious call at first base.

Terry Francona

The Reds manager, who Cubs fans may not want to run into at a public pool or beach this summer.

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What they’re saying

“It felt good. It's a weird thing. Spring Training, I was pretty atrocious — really can't get any worse. But I think in the back of my mind, I was always just telling myself, 'Let's get out of Arizona. Let's get to Chicago, get to Wrigley, just get where it matters and we're game-planning a little more.' Glad to see I wasn't crazy for thinking that the whole time. It felt good to just get back out there and start the year on a decent note. I know I can be a lot, lot better. But this was a good start.”

— Jameson Taillon

“[Cabrera] He has treated this, being a Cub, as a real new start to his career. And a fresh start. And I think you get excited about that. I think he's excited for this day to finally be here.”

— Craig Counsell, Brewers Manager

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.