Tigers fans fear Scott Harris might pull off shortsighted third base trade with Cubs

Throughout the offseason, the Detroit Tigers didn't exactly make it a secret that they wouldn't be involved in Alex Bregman's market. So when Bregman signed a five-year deal with the Chicago Cubs worth $175 million, it was no surprise to learn that Scott Harris and Co. weren't involved in the bidding.

The Cubs now find themselves in a curious spot. Bregman's deal, even with nearly half of it being deferred, has them walking up to the first level of the Competitive Balance Threshold, and they've operated in the past as a team that likes to remain under it.

Cubs could tempt Tigers into a questionable trade Scott Harris might regret

Bregman's arrival also creates what could be perceived as an infield logjam for Chicago.

Matt Shaw entered the 2025 season as the Cubs' Opening Day third baseman, but an up-and-down campaign that included a demotion back to the Triple-A was at the center of their pursuit of Bregman this offseason. With Bregman now in the fold, Shaw has moved into a utility role on the Cubs' bench, but there's been speculation he could be had in trade talks.

The Cubs also have Nico Hoerner at second base, a perennial Gold Glove candidate who has also demonstrated the ability to play shortstop. Hoerner is making $12 million in the final year of his contract, and given their payroll situation, there's been speculation that the Cubs could look to trade him.

Hoerner would be a tremendous fit for the Tigers, but the position fit could be difficult to piece together. Hoerner hasn't played third base with any degree of regularity since making his major league debut, and while he could be viewed as an upgrade over Zach McKinstry or Gleyber Torres in the middle of the infield, the Cubs are going to have a high asking price.

Chicago would likely only consider moving Hoerner in the outside scenario that a Tarik Skubal was involved. Obviously, Skubal is a far more valuable player, but it speaks to how unlikely the Cubs are to move their second baseman.

Shaw potentially could be had, and the Cubs likely wouldn't have as high an asking price. Or, at the very least, they would likely entertain the idea if the Tigers were willing to trade from the top of their farm system.

There isn't a scenario where Detroit should consider that move. Shaw is no more of a solution at third base than Colt Keith. With the Tigers already having Keith locked down with a team-friendly extension, it wouldn't make baseball sense for Detroit to be the team to give an extended runway to one of the Cubs' former top prospects. Not to mention, Shaw would arrive with some concerns off the field.

The Cubs certainly might convince a team that Shaw still has a high ceiling, but the Tigers would be wise to look elsewhere. That is, assuming they still are in the market for a third baseman.