Matt Shaw Returns to Cubs After Triple-A Surge \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ The Chicago Cubs have recalled top prospect Matt Shaw from Triple-A Iowa after a strong minor league stretch. Shaw returns to the big leagues following a slow MLB start and replaces infielder Nicky Lopez, who was designated for assignment. The Cubs lead the NL Central with a 28–19 record entering Monday’s game.
Quick Looks
- Matt Shaw Recalled: The 23-year-old returns to MLB after 24 games with Iowa.
- Lopez Designated for Assignment: Nicky Lopez’s roster spot cleared for Shaw’s return.
- Slow Start in MLB: Shaw hit .172 with one HR and 3 RBIs in his first stint.
- Triple-A Turnaround: Batting .286 with six home runs and 14 RBIs for Iowa.
- Counsell on Development: “Sometimes you have to take a step back.”
- Former First-Round Pick: Shaw was the 13th overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft.
- Cubs Leading Division: Chicago entered Monday atop the NL Central at 28–19.
- Return Comes Against Marlins: Shaw rejoined the team ahead of series in Miami.
Deep Look
The Chicago Cubs made a significant roster move this week that could shape the trajectory of their season and send a strong message about player development, performance expectations, and their ambitions in the National League Central. The club has officially recalled Matt Shaw, one of its most promising young talents, from Triple-A Iowa, while designating infielder Nicky Lopez for assignment to clear room on the roster.
Shaw’s return to the majors comes after a rough debut earlier this season, followed by an impressive turnaround in the minors—a classic case of a prospect needing a moment to reset, refocus, and then roar back. The move also highlights how seriously the Cubs are taking this year’s division race.
Shaw’s First MLB Stint: A Humbling Experience
Drafted 13th overall in the 2023 MLB Draft out of the University of Maryland, Matt Shaw rose quickly through the Cubs’ farm system. The front office didn’t hesitate to test him at the highest level when he made the Opening Day roster in 2024. However, big-league pitching proved a steep learning curve.
In 58 at-bats, Shaw managed just 10 hits, with a lone home run and three RBIs. He struck out 18 times in 68 plate appearances, often looking overmatched against elite-level breaking balls and high-velocity fastballs. His slash line of .172/.221/.293 forced the Cubs’ hand, and on April 15, he was sent down to Iowa.
Manager Craig Counsell explained the decision with honesty and optimism:
“Sometimes you have to take a step back. We just thought we saw enough where we kind of needed to take a break from this level and get some at-bats at Triple-A.”
Triple-A Redemption: Shaw Reboots in Iowa
Shaw responded the way the Cubs had hoped: by dominating at Triple-A.
Over 24 games with Iowa, he batted .286, launched six home runs, and drove in 14 runs, all while showcasing the kind of patient, disciplined approach that initially made him a first-round pick. His strikeout rate improved, and his ability to drive the ball to all fields returned to form.
Scouts noted improved pitch recognition, better timing, and renewed confidence in his swing mechanics. By mid-May, it was clear Shaw had earned another opportunity—and the Cubs delivered.
DFA for Nicky Lopez: End of a Short Chicago Chapter
To make room for Shaw, the Cubs designated Nicky Lopez for assignment. The versatile infielder, known more for his glove than his bat, struggled to carve out a consistent role in Chicago. His offensive production had been below league average, and with Shaw’s ceiling far higher, the decision signaled a clear preference for upside.
Lopez, who had previous stints with the Kansas City Royals and Atlanta Braves, now faces waivers. He could be claimed by another team in need of depth or outrighted to the minors if he clears waivers and accepts a demotion.
While Lopez provided veteran presence and flexibility, the Cubs clearly see Shaw as a player who can impact both sides of the game—not just this year, but for seasons to come.
Cubs’ Front Office Sending a Message
This move isn’t just about one player. It’s an example of how the Cubs front office under Jed Hoyer is managing performance-based decisions amid a competitive window.
Sitting atop the NL Central at 28–19 going into Monday’s matchup against the Marlins, the Cubs are well-positioned to push for a postseason berth. That makes every roster spot more valuable, and it’s clear Chicago isn’t waiting for slumping players to bounce back—they’re rewarding performance and potential, especially with top-tier prospects like Shaw.
Shaw’s return adds a power-hitting righty back into the mix at either third base or designated hitter, potentially easing the load on more established hitters like Christopher Morel and Seiya Suzuki.
The Bigger Picture: Cubs’ Youth Movement Taking Shape
Shaw’s promotion is part of a larger youth infusion for Chicago. With players like Pete Crow-Armstrong, Ben Brown, and Michael Busch already seeing time at the big-league level, the Cubs’ 2023 and 2024 draft classes are transitioning from prospects to producers.
For Shaw, the second chance is about more than redemption—it’s about proving that he can handle the mental and physical demands of being a key contributor in a city with sky-high expectations.
If he can replicate his Triple-A production in the majors, Shaw could emerge as a cornerstone of the Cubs’ infield for years to come.
“We know the talent is there,” one Cubs executive said off the record. “Now it’s about channeling it, game after game.”
What’s Next for the Cubs?
With Shaw back in the mix, expect Counsell to gradually ramp up his playing time, likely starting him at third base against left-handed pitchers and gradually increasing his appearances depending on results.
The Cubs will monitor how Shaw’s swing holds up against major league pitching this time, especially his ability to lay off off-speed pitches out of the zone and handle velocity on the inner half.
This week’s series against the Marlins presents a softer reentry point than the high-pressure divisional matchups awaiting in June. It’s a critical stretch—not just for Shaw, but for a Cubs team that believes its championship window is reopening.
Matt Shaw Returns
You must Register or Login to post a comment.