Cubs Pursue Ryan McMahon for Third Base as Offseason Moves Pay Off

CHICAGO, Ill. — The Chicago Cubs are off to a strong start this season, leading the National League Central after an active offseason focused on improvement. The front office made a bold move by trading away Cody Bellinger for Kyle Tucker, a decision that is already proving fruitful.

This winter, the Cubs prioritized enhancing their roster with an aggressive approach to trades. With a wealth of young talent, they believe now is the time to capitalize on their potential.

Tucker, a rising star, has emerged as a top contender for the NL MVP after a stellar start, leading the Cubs with impressive offensive numbers. However, his presence comes with pressure due to his impending free agency. The Cubs traded promising players Isaac Paredes, Cam Smith, and Hayden Wesneski to the Houston Astros to secure Tucker, whose value continues to rise.

While the Cubs celebrate their position in the standings, they face challenges in filling other key positions, particularly at third base. Despite bringing in veterans Jon Berti and Justin Turner, the team struggled to find a consistent starter and recently reassigned rookie Matt Shaw to the minors.

To address this gap, the Cubs are reportedly interested in acquiring Colorado Rockies infielder Ryan McMahon, who has drawn attention from several teams. McMahon, an All-Star last season, has a robust offensive background but has struggled this season with a 0.9 WAR.

His performance in the previous season, where he recorded a .242 batting average, 20 home runs, and a solid on-base percentage, suggests he could rebound and add depth while the Cubs wait for Shaw’s development.

McMahon is currently on a six-year, $70 million contract, with $16 million owed in both 2026 and 2027. This financial consideration makes him a feasible target for the Cubs if they believe he can regain his form.

The Cubs’ front office continues to explore options to bolster their lineup as they aim for a division title, making McMahon a player to watch as the trade deadline approaches.