Cubs Convention 2026: Inside the Roster's Dynamic Changes with Alex Bregman Signing
The Chicago Cubs' recent signing of third baseman Alex Bregman is expected to bring a new dynamic to their roster, particularly for utility player Matt Shaw. The five-year, $175 million deal has led to speculation about its impact on the team's positional needs.
For Shaw, who was primarily a middle infielder before playing third base last season, the addition of Bregman means he will be tasked with adapting to a new role – and potentially exploring other positions like outfield. This change is not unprecedented for Shaw, however, as he did play some outfield in college summer ball back in 2021.
Shaw acknowledged that the team's openness in discussing his role has alleviated concerns about where he'll fit into the lineup. "The team knows me good enough at this point to know I just want to be prepared when the season comes around," he said.
Manager Craig Counsell also expressed confidence in Shaw's ability to adjust to new positions, citing his experience with Bregman and other outfielders on the roster. Counsell believes that moving an infielder to the outfield may be easier than switching from outfield to infield, given Shaw's athletic prowess.
However, not all of Shaw's teammates seem as optimistic about their own roles. Second baseman Nico Hoerner has fueled speculation about potential trade rumors surrounding his future with the team, citing a lack of a trade clause in his current contract.
Hoerner downplayed these rumors, focusing instead on the benefits of playing for the Cubs – including access to top-notch media coverage and passionate fans who care deeply about the team's success. "Like usual, extension- or contract-related things are going to remain internal," he said.
The Cubs have also made other roster moves since Bregman's signing, including adding center fielder Justin Dean and infielder Ben Cowles off waivers. Additionally, the front office has announced several promotions within its baseball operations department, including Garrett Chiado's elevation to assistant general manager.
As the team prepares for another competitive season, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact their overall performance – but one thing is clear: the Cubs are set up for success with a talented and deep roster.
The Chicago Cubs' recent signing of third baseman Alex Bregman is expected to bring a new dynamic to their roster, particularly for utility player Matt Shaw. The five-year, $175 million deal has led to speculation about its impact on the team's positional needs.
For Shaw, who was primarily a middle infielder before playing third base last season, the addition of Bregman means he will be tasked with adapting to a new role – and potentially exploring other positions like outfield. This change is not unprecedented for Shaw, however, as he did play some outfield in college summer ball back in 2021.
Shaw acknowledged that the team's openness in discussing his role has alleviated concerns about where he'll fit into the lineup. "The team knows me good enough at this point to know I just want to be prepared when the season comes around," he said.
Manager Craig Counsell also expressed confidence in Shaw's ability to adjust to new positions, citing his experience with Bregman and other outfielders on the roster. Counsell believes that moving an infielder to the outfield may be easier than switching from outfield to infield, given Shaw's athletic prowess.
However, not all of Shaw's teammates seem as optimistic about their own roles. Second baseman Nico Hoerner has fueled speculation about potential trade rumors surrounding his future with the team, citing a lack of a trade clause in his current contract.
Hoerner downplayed these rumors, focusing instead on the benefits of playing for the Cubs – including access to top-notch media coverage and passionate fans who care deeply about the team's success. "Like usual, extension- or contract-related things are going to remain internal," he said.
The Cubs have also made other roster moves since Bregman's signing, including adding center fielder Justin Dean and infielder Ben Cowles off waivers. Additionally, the front office has announced several promotions within its baseball operations department, including Garrett Chiado's elevation to assistant general manager.
As the team prepares for another competitive season, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact their overall performance – but one thing is clear: the Cubs are set up for success with a talented and deep roster.
they gotta change shaw's role already tho, it's like, we all know he can do more than just third base, right? 
and what's up with nico hoerner and those trade rumors 
i get that contract stuff is super stressful but let's be real, the cubs are in a great spot rn. they got talent pouring out of their ears 
and with counsell at the helm, i think we're gonna see some awesome things on the field this year 
. First they sign Bregman, then Shaw has to adapt to playing outfield... it's like they're just trying to confuse us 
. And now Nico Hoerner is all worried about getting traded? Like, dude, you've got a contract clause, chill 
. Can't the front office just make up their minds already? It's like they're trying to keep us guessing 
... it's all just a bunch of corporate speak nonsense 
.
and it's cool to see matt shaw adapting to new roles, he's always been super versatile 
i mean, who wouldn't want to play in a stacked lineup like chicago has? 
and with justin dean and ben cowles on board, their outfield depth is looking 
I'm low-key hyped about the Cubbies' signing of Alex Bregman 
! They're gonna shake things up in the lineup, and it's gonna be cool to see Matt Shaw adapt to playing third base and potentially even outfield 
. Shaw's been open about his desire to be ready for whatever role comes his way, and I think that's super refreshing 
I hope not, 'cause Hoerner seems like he's all in on being a Cub 
!
️. I'm loving the Cubbies' roster changes so far, and I'm excited to see what the future holds 
!
Is it just a piece of paper or does it really mean anything?
but nico hoerner might be worried about being traded, hope not cuz we love him 
dean and cowles are new additions too, i wonder what the front office did to get them 
. Like, is there really nothing to worry about with his contract? 
.
️. The front office is making some smart moves and I'm hyped to see the Cubs compete again this season! 
just heard about the Cubs' latest signings and I'm already worried 
... Alex Bregman's 5-year deal is gonna be a huge financial burden, what if it's not worth it? 
... and Justin Dean just came in off waivers, that's just gonna put pressure on other guys' playing time 
... and don't even get me started on the Cubs' payroll 
... this team's gonna be a wild ride for sure 
, but i'm a bit curious about hoerner's situation... all these trade rumors are kinda stressing me out 
. Counsell's faith in him is good to see too 
. but hey, who knows? maybe it's all just a publicity stunt 
. The team seems confident in his abilities, but Nico Hoerner's contract situation is a bit unclear 
The team's openness about his role is a huge plus, and Craig Counsell seems like the right guy to trust his instincts on this one.
But it sounds like there might be some uncertainty about his future with the team... only time will tell if he'll stick around or get dealt off.
. And don't even get me started on Nico Hoerner and potential trade rumors... can we please just focus on the game for once? 
. Craig Counsell seems like a genius for seeing Shaw's potential in the outfield 
. Can't wait to see how all these moves play out this season