Matt Shaw's Return Is Equally Important for Cubs' Present and Future

[Brian Kelder]

Image courtesy of © Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

Matt Shaw was reinstated on Friday from the injured list, and his return bears watching. Craig Counsell has alluded to both Michael Busch and Ian Happ's struggles vs. left-handed pitching; Shaw has an .845 OPS from that side of the plate. Furthermore, Seiya Suzuki's price tag this offseason looks larger than the Chicago Cubs might feel comfortable paying on either side of the upcoming lockout, and of course Happ is an impending free agent as well. 

In other words, Shaw needs to have a good September to solidify himself in the Cubs' plans for next season and beyond.

He has only hit .217 against right-handed pitching this year, which needs to improve for him to be a viable full-time starter, and defensively his value and position are still to be determined. He played a solid third base in 2025, but Alex Bregman isn't leaving. Neither is Nico Hoerner, for that matter. So, where could Shaw land?

A Ben Zobrist type utility role is possible if they bring the entire band back. Shaw can play multiple positions, allowing the starters a day off or chance to DH. Shaw also could man the designated hitter spot for a spell, at least against southpaws. There's already a path to 300-plus plate appearances right there, but he and the Cubs would want a steady position. What could that role be?

One option would be a platoon partner for Michael Busch. Busch has been disappointing this year, and Counsell alluded to a new plan for backup first base. Shaw would be a better option than Justin Turner last year, for instance. One thing to look for with Shaw is if he plays some first base down the stretch; if he does, it might be fair to say the team is preparing him for a stronger focus on the infield, which could open the fourth outfielder job for someone like Kevin Alcántara.

If Shaw instead continues to play capably in the outfield corners upon his return, perhaps the Cubs would feel more comfortable moving on from one or both of Happ and Suzuki. The 24-year-old is a cheap, controlled option, allowing funds to be allocated to the pitching staff which currently has few dependable members under contract next season. 

Though the playoff picture is most important, Matt Shaw's performance in September will be quite important for the Cubs' future plans. Depending on what he's asked to handle (and how well he performs in those duties), the winter plans could hinge on what he shows during the stretch run.

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