CHICAGO — When the Cubs acquired star outfielder last month, they sent third baseman Isaac Paredes and Top 100 prospect Cam Smith to the Astros in a blockbuster trade.
This move could pave the way for Matt Shaw, ranked as the Cubs’ top prospect by MLB Pipeline, to make his way to the Major League roster.
During the Cubs Convention on Saturday, general manager Carter Hawkins emphasized the opportunity awaiting Shaw, telling fans that the team expects him to do everything possible to secure the open spot at third base.
“Even if the opportunity is there,” Shaw said, “you still have to earn it. Hopefully, if I get the chance, I can prove myself and claim that position.”
The Cubs are approaching the third base situation with a “safety net” mentality, as general manager Carter Hawkins described it, but the job is very much Matt Shaw’s to win. Last season, seven players made at least one start at third base for Chicago, and the only one still on the roster is fellow prospect Luis Vazquez, who had just a single start.
To bolster their infield depth, the Cubs have made several moves this offseason, including trading for Vidal Bruján, selecting Gage Workman in the Rule 5 Draft, and adding prospect Ben Cowles (ranked No. 25 on MLB Pipeline’s Cubs list). Hawkins also noted that the team is still considering external options to add experience to the mix.
Despite these additions, the 23-year-old Shaw will have a prime opportunity this spring to prove he’s ready to take the reins at the hot corner.
“We’ve all been in those shoes at some point,” Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson said. “Coming up through the system with a chance to make the team. I’m excited for him and the opportunity he has this spring to make his case. We’ll see how it plays out.”
The Cubs selected Matt Shaw with the 13th overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft and have fast-tracked him through their farm system. Last season, Shaw transitioned from the middle infield to third base, honing his skills at the position while advancing from Double-A to Triple-A.
Over 121 games, Shaw posted an impressive .284/.379/.488 slash line with 21 home runs, 19 doubles, and 31 stolen bases. His standout year continued internationally, as he played third base for Team USA during the Premier12 tournament in Japan, helping secure a bronze medal. Shaw was named to the All-World Team after hitting .412 with a tournament-leading 14 RBIs and 24 total bases.
“The one thing with Matty is he’s hit everywhere he’s played,” said Cubs hitting coach Dustin Kelly. “That’s been the constant. He hit in high school, dominated in college, excelled in the Minors, and continued hitting in the Premier12.”
Matt Shaw has also garnered praise for his work ethic and professionalism behind the scenes.
Last offseason, Shaw committed to transitioning to third base, impressing both the Major League coaching staff and veteran players during his first big league Spring Training. His attendance at Cubs Convention this week follows training sessions he’s already begun at the team’s complex in Arizona.
“He’s an unbelievable worker. He kind of reminds me of Nico [Hoerner] in that regard,” said Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer. “He’s taken on every challenge we’ve given him and continued to improve defensively.”
Shaw has been studying video of elite third basemen like Nolan Arenado and Alex Bregman, focusing on refining his footwork and leveraging his quick reaction time rather than relying solely on arm strength.
“He’s seized every opportunity so far,” Hoyer added. “I don’t see why this should be any different.”
Shaw recognizes the magnitude of the chance in front of him, calling it “amazing.” Cubs manager Craig Counsell echoed the sentiment. “Matt made an impression last spring and followed that up with a really good season. There’s opportunity here, no question about it. Players want opportunity, and young players who’ve performed deserve it.”
