Why Cubs could trade Matt Shaw despite potential starting OF role in 2027

The Chicago Cubs are going to be very busy this offseason. Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ are both hitting free agency, and the Cubs are going to need to fill out their outfield.

Matt Shaw, a versatile youngster, could earn one of those starting spots in the outfield. But there's another scenario available to the Cubs this upcoming offseason.

As MLB.com's Mark Feinsand highlighted, the Cubs could trade Shaw instead of slotting him into the outfield. The reason why such a move could happen is simple: Shaw could be the trade chip needed to land a good starting pitcher.

Cubs could trade Matt Shaw despite projected OF job with SP upgrade in mind

"That said, Shaw could be a valuable trade chip for the Cubs if they look to deal for starting pitching," Feinsand writes.

This is a very interesting situation for the Cubs with Shaw. They have no reason to move on from Shaw for anything less than an elite pitcher.

Plus, with a weak infield and outfield free agent class this upcoming offseason, Shaw's value is likely through the roof.

Even though his production in the big leagues hasn't been All-Star caliber, a young player with the control that he brings, on top of his versatility, could lead the Cubs to landing a great starting pitcher this upcoming offseason.

MORE: Cubs trade deadline addition Clay Holmes likely to opt out of $12M 2027 player option

Maybe it's someone like Emerson Hancock from the Seattle Mariners. Or maybe it's the Atlanta Braves with Spencer Strider.

Regardless of who the Cubs target, Shaw should get them most of the way to a trade for some elite starting pitching options.

The Cubs don't need to force a trade of Shaw, as they could easily justify keeping him and making him a starting outfielder.

But if an opportunity arises, and a good starting pitcher becomes readily available, then the Cubs could be ready to pounce and use Shaw to land the new ace.

More MLB news:

• Jose Berrios ‘extremely unlikely’ to opt out of $48 million deal with Blue Jays
• Bo Bichette likely not to opt out of Mets $42 million contract
• How Reds' Sal Stewart has MLB history on his side for NL Rookie of the Year award
• Kevin McGonigle is runaway favorite to win AL Rookie of the Year for Tigers
• Phillies' Jesus Luzardo on track to be best road pitcher in MLB history since 1913