Chicago Cubs Recall Matt Shaw Amid Third Base Struggles

CHICAGO, IL — The Chicago Cubs recalled third baseman Matt Shaw from Triple-A Iowa on Monday, as the team continues to grapple with issues at the third base position.

Shaw, 23, has been on a hot streak, batting .295 with a 1.119 OPS, five home runs, 10 RBIs, and 15 runs over his last 11 games at Iowa. He originally started the season with the Cubs but struggled, hitting only .172 with one home run and three RBIs in 18 games.

The decision to bring back Shaw follows a strong performance in the minors, where he adjusted his swing, toning down his leg kick, and has found success at the plate. Cubs General Manager Carter Hawkins expressed optimism about Shaw’s potential impact on the team.

“The performance is obvious over the last few days, that’s pretty clear,” Hawkins told the Chicago Tribune before a recent game. “Those weren’t cheap home runs. He’s been working on finding a consistent approach, and I think you saw the fruits of that.”

If Shaw can maintain this performance, he may become a critical asset for the Cubs, who currently have the worst third base batting average in the league at .174, with no home runs from the position.

In a corresponding move, the Cubs designated infielder Nicky Lopez for assignment. Lopez, 30, had struggled this season, managing just one hit in 18 at-bats.

Shaw was selected 13th overall in the 2023 draft from the University of Maryland. The Cubs hope that his successful return can help reverse their third base woes this season.