Let's talk about Matt Shaw, the guy who’s been making headlines in the baseball world. Picture this: it’s a Thursday night in Des Moines, and the Iowa Cubs are going head-to-head with Columbus. Shaw, the team’s third baseman, is out there throwing the ball with precision and focus. This isn’t just any game; it’s a glimpse into the future of the Chicago Cubs. Cody Scanlan captured the moment perfectly, and it’s one that fans won’t forget anytime soon.

Shaw's Incredible Season

In his first full professional season, Matt Shaw blew everyone away with his stats. We’re talking about a .284 batting average, a .379 on-base percentage, and a .488 slugging percentage. Oh, and let’s not forget the 146 wRC+—that’s a number that’ll make any baseball fan sit up and take notice. Shaw wasn’t just playing; he was dominating at the highest levels of the minor leagues. It’s no wonder MLB Pipeline has ranked him as the 19th best prospect in all of baseball.

Pairing with Tucker and Swanson

Imagine Shaw teaming up with Kyle Tucker and Dansby Swanson in the heart of the Cubs’ lineup. That’s right, folks, Shaw is set to become a key player for the Cubs, bringing his unique blend of power and precision to the team. When Dansby Swanson sent Shaw a congratulatory text after the MLB draft, it was more than just a polite gesture—it was a sign of things to come. Shaw was thrilled about the message, calling it "really cool." It’s moments like these that remind us how connected the baseball community truly is.

Read also:
Cooper Manning The Forgotten Manning Brother Who Found His Own Path

Shaw's Journey to the Cubs

But it wasn’t all smooth sailing for Shaw. On Tuesday morning, Manager Craig Counsell called him into his office, and that’s where Shaw learned the news. Ranked 19th in all of baseball, Shaw’s journey to the Cubs has been nothing short of remarkable. As the Cubs prepare for Opening Day, Shaw’s status for the Tokyo Series remains uncertain. Still, his minor oblique issue has progressed much like every other minor injury in baseball—it takes longer than you hope, but Shaw remains focused and determined.

Shaw entered his first spring game with two clear goals in mind. He not only achieved them but went above and beyond, tallying three hits in the process. And after some concerning news on Friday, Shaw was back on the field by Saturday, proving his resilience. It was a text message from one of his best friends in Massachusetts that brought Shaw back to reality one Wednesday night. The excitement was palpable, and Shaw knew his moment was coming.

Debut and Challenges

Shaw’s MLB debut happened in 2025, and while it hasn’t been the dream start he envisioned, he’s still learning and growing. With Alex Bregman signing with the Boston Red Sox, Shaw is now the favorite to start at third base for the Cubs on Opening Day. Rookie Matt Shaw is expected to be the primary third baseman for the Cubs this season, and while his status for the Tokyo Series remains up in the air, Shaw is ready to prove himself.

Shaw’s journey began long before he was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the first round (13th overall) of the 2023 MLB June Amateur Draft. Born on November 6, 2001, in Springfield, MA, Shaw has always had a passion for baseball. Whether playing shortstop, third base, or second base, Shaw brings versatility and skill to the field. His stats may not reflect it yet, but Shaw has the potential to be a game-changer for the Cubs.

Shaw's Legacy in the Making

Even though Ryne Sandberg’s playing career ended before Shaw was born, Shaw draws inspiration from the legends of the game. The top prospect in the Cubs organization knows that hard work and dedication are key to success. Shaw might just be the Cubs’ starting third baseman this April, and he’s earned every bit of it.

So, Cubs fans, keep your eyes on Matt Shaw. He’s not just another player; he’s the future of the team. Whether it’s his stats, his journey, or his determination, Shaw is a name you’ll want to remember. And who knows? Maybe one day, Shaw’s name will be mentioned alongside the greats in the National Baseball Hall of Fame.