Why Matt Shaw could become an unexpected X-factor for the Red Sox lineup

18 hours ago 3

The Boston Red Sox are having real trouble with their offense, and while they have an amazing pitching staff, they have one dud in Brayan Bello. One of the biggest troubles with their offense is their third baseman Caleb Durbin’s inability to put the ball in play consistently.

While he’s a great defender, his offense has been deplorable. With that in mind, finding a replacement for him, possibly just temporarily, could benefit Boston.

That’s where Chicago Cubs star Matt Shaw comes in.

Matt Shaw is an upgrade

Shaw is currently benched for the Cubs, as Alex Bregman took his position at third base, and they already have a second baseman in Nico Hoerner. Both are on long-term deals, so the only time he gets to play is filling in in the outfield.

Right now, he’s slashing .245/.294/.404/.698 with six doubles, three home runs and 12 RBI in 40 games, although he’s still had less than 100 plate appearances. While these numbers seem a little on the lower side, keep in mind they are much better than Durbin’s.

On the defensive side of the ball, Shaw is an above average defender. So, Durbin’s one saving grace to be on the MLB roster can be replaced.

The Sox have the assets

Apr 29, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Brayan Bello (66) smiles as he comes of the field against the Toronto Blue Jays during the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Shaw is being shopped around as the Cubs look for a starting pitcher, and lo and behold, what do the Red Sox have that they want gone? Brayan Bello, who they shopped this offseason.

While Bello is doing very poorly this year, he showed last season that he was a capable middle-of-the-rotation starter. A change in scenery might be the best thing for him, and the Cubs are probably willing to take the chance.

Throw a mid-tier prospect in there, and the Sox can get a quality third baseman who can also play second base as needed.

Shaw could be the X-Factor

While his numbers are low right now, giving him guaranteed everyday playing time could solve the problem. Playing in Fenway could also help, as he is a righty with a pull tendency, and he could take advantage of the Green Monster as Durbin was supposed to do.

At this point, the Sox need all the help they can get. Putting Shaw at third and sending Durbin to AAA to fix his swing may be the right choice. Hopefully, Boston realizes this and gets to work.

MORE MLB NEWS

Brayan Bello’s latest collapse may have cost him his spot in the Red Sox rotation

Connelly Early and Payton Tolle are giving the Red Sox major hope for the future

Red Sox facing major infield shift after Trevor Story injury setback

Read Entire Article