The Chicago Cubs are eyeing Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman Ke'Bryan Hayes as they prepare for the upcoming trade deadline. Despite their strong performance this season, the Cubs have struggled to find a reliable option for third base. After sending top prospect Matt Shaw back to the minors following a slow start, the team is actively seeking a trade to bolster their infield. Hayes, a former Gold Glove winner, has been linked to multiple teams, including the Cubs, as they aim to enhance their roster further.

Although Hayes may not deliver the offensive power the Cubs desire, his elite defensive skills would significantly strengthen their infield, complementing players like Dansby Swanson and Nico Hoerner. The Cubs currently lead the NL Central and are viewed as serious contenders for the World Series, making it crucial for them to solidify their lineup before the trade deadline.

Kyle Tucker, now in his eighth major league season, has made a significant impact in his first year with the Chicago Cubs, following a high-profile trade from the Houston Astros. The Cubs acquired Tucker in exchange for infielder Isaac Paredes and pitcher Hayden Wesneski during December 2024, aiming to fortify their outfield after a disappointing previous season.

Tucker, a seasoned outfielder with three All-Star selections, has excelled in his new role, posting a .291 batting average and a .931 OPS, both higher than his career averages. His performance has been instrumental in helping the Cubs surge to a 50-35 record, placing them atop the NL Central and in pursuit of their first division title since 2020. Furthermore, Tucker ranks third in NL outfielder All-Star voting, showcasing his value to the team as they look to the future. Cubs president Jed Hoyer confirmed that Tucker is a key part of their plans moving forward, suggesting his strong rookie campaign will not detract from negotiations concerning compensation.

Matthew Boyd, Chicago Cubs' pitcher, has overcome significant challenges since his forearm injury in 2021. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2023, Boyd is now thriving with a 2.65 ERA and an 8-3 record. His stellar performance, allowing just two earned runs or fewer in 13 of 17 starts this season, has been pivotal for the Cubs, particularly during the absence of key pitchers. Boyd attributes his success to the support from the Cleveland Guardians, who gave him a chance to re-establish his career last year.

In a recent game against the Cleveland Guardians, Boyd showcased his talent, striking out five batters and allowing only five hits over seven innings, contributing to a 5-2 victory. Cubs manager Craig Counsell praised Boyd's efficiency and performance consistency. With the Cubs battling injuries, Boyd's resurgence is crucial, and he is now a contender for his first All-Star Game appearance, reflecting a remarkable turnaround after a challenging few years.

The Chicago Cubs secured a 5-2 victory over the Cleveland Guardians, propelled by Matthew Boyd's stellar seven-inning performance, allowing only two runs. Boyd's strong outing featured five strikeouts, marking his sixth quality start in seven games. Carson Kelly shone at the plate with three RBIs, including a two-run double in the pivotal second inning. Seiya Suzuki contributed with a leadoff homer, while Michael Busch also made a significant impact with three hits. Despite a better showing in the fourth inning, the Guardians couldn't halt their five-game losing streak, leaving them outscored 32-8 during this span.

Chicago Cubs President Jed Hoyer reflects on the highs and lows of rookie third baseman Matt Shaw, drawing parallels to last year's experience with Pete Crow-Armstrong. Shaw, who was the No. 13 pick in the 2023 draft, faced significant struggles early in the season, batting just .172 before being sent to Triple A. After a strong performance in the minors, he returned to the majors, displaying the typical ups and downs of a rookie.

Despite a modest .246 batting average since his return, Shaw has made strides defensively, notably avoiding errors and showcasing his fielding skills. Hoyer believes in Shaw's potential and emphasizes the need for patience amidst the Cubs' current success in the NL Central. The impending trade deadline raises questions about whether to acquire a veteran third baseman or continue developing Shaw, who could be on the verge of a breakthrough.