Yahoo Sports proposes hypothetical Cubs-Red Sox trade involving Matt Shaw
A recent feature by Yahoo Sports outlines a mock transaction that would send Matt Shaw to Boston in exchange for Aroldis Chapman and Brayan Bello, though no official negotiations are underway.
Yahoo Sports has published a speculative analysis proposing a hypothetical trade between the Chicago Cubs and the Boston Red Sox. The proposed arrangement would see the Cubs send infielder Matt Shaw to Boston in exchange for pitchers Aroldis Chapman and Brayan Bello. The article explicitly frames the scenario as a mock trade rather than a confirmed or reported transaction.
The proposal suggests the Red Sox are targeting Shaw as a long-term infield cornerstone. The 24-year-old former first-round pick has struggled to secure regular playing time behind veterans Alex Bregman and Nico Hoerner. The article notes that the Red Sox have reportedly expressed interest in Shaw, potentially moving veterans to acquire him amid their own struggles.
For the Cubs, the hypothetical deal is framed as a move to bolster their bullpen for a playoff push. The article highlights the team’s 34-33 start to the season and their desire to return to postseason action following last year’s NLDS loss. The proposed return of Chapman, a nine-time All-Star, is presented as a solution for a unit in need of a reliable closer, while Bello is viewed as valuable depth for an inconsistent bullpen.
The analysis also touches on the Red Sox’s current standing, describing their 27-38 start as lackluster. The article suggests the Red Sox possess a surplus of bullpen talent and could offer a compelling return due to their controllable pitching assets. It implies the club might be willing to move off veterans to acquire a potential cornerstone piece for the organization.
Regarding player performance, the article references Shaw’s contact-over-power hitting style and base-stealing upside, suggesting his value could increase in Boston. It also notes that Brayan Bello, a fifth-year starter, posted career-best production in 2025 and could rebound quickly with a change of scenery. The piece concludes that the trade would allow Chicago to capitalize on Shaw’s value ahead of the trade deadline to shore up weaknesses.
