CHGO Chicago Cubs Podcast · ALLCITY Network, CHGO Sports

Here to STAY?! Are Nico Hoerner & Matt Shaw Trade Rumors Dead? I CHGO Cubs Podcast

·1 hr·5 clips

Why did the Brewers trade a rookie of the year contender, and what does it reveal about their long-term plans?

The CHGO Cubs Podcast hosts Joey Christopoulos, Justin Roman, and Luke Suckmeyer analyze the Brewers' trade of Caleb Durbin and its implications for the Cubs. They discuss whether trade rumors surrounding Nico Hoerner and Matt Shaw are now dead. The Brewers traded Durbin, who finished third in NL Rookie of the Year voting, to the Red Sox for pitcher Robert Gasser. The hosts interpret this as Boston's backup plan after failing to meet the Cubs' higher asking price for Shaw or Hoerner. They believe the Cubs' front office remained firm in their demands, choosing to retain both infielders. The panel compares Durbin and Shaw, noting Shaw's higher prospect pedigree and untapped potential despite Durbin's strong 2023. They argue the Brewers operate from a different financial mindset, often trading players early to maximize value, while the Cubs have the resources to retain talent. Keeping Shaw provides the Cubs with a cost-controlled super-utility player who can spell multiple positions and could replace impending free agents. The hosts contend the Cubs improved their floor by signing Alex Bregman and keeping Shaw as depth, a significant upgrade over previous utility options. They view the Cubs as the NL Central favorites, citing their 92-win base and major offseason additions compared to rivals' subtractions or stagnation. A hypothetical late-spring training injury on another contender could revive trade calls, but the hosts consider that unlikely. They advocate shifting from a "Don't Trade Nico" campaign to an "Extend Nico" campaign, arguing a team-friendly extension could actually increase his trade value if needed. Social media buzz about Hoerner's powerful batting practice swings fuels speculation about a potential power surge. The hosts rank NL Central catching situations, placing the Cardinals last due to overall team irrelevance and the Pirates fourth with Henry Davis. They rank the Reds' Tyler Stephenson third, criticizing his defense, and place the Cubs' tandem of Miguel Amaya and Carson Kelly second behind the Brewers. The tone is conversational and optimistic, blending insider analysis with fan enthusiasm. This episode will appeal to Cubs fans seeking detailed roster analysis and reassurance about the team's direction. Listeners preferring trade speculation or criticism of the front office might find it less engaging.

As heard by us

A relaxed Cubs preseason reset with clear roster debate and a loose, fan-first tone.

Spring training is framed as close enough to feel real, and the conversation moves briskly from Opening Day timing into roster logic. The clearest takeaway is the case for Nico Horner and Matt Shaw both making the Opening Day team, with the Cubs better served by keeping the…

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Want a Cubs spring-training reset with real roster talk and fan-room energy?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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