The Chicago Cubs are approaching the end of the season with a focus on the franchise’s future. They might use the upcoming weeks to offer a top prospect a chance in the majors.
Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report highlighted several prospects who could get a call-up, with Cubs third baseman Matt Shaw emerging as a leading candidate. Reuter noted, “Chicago has five high-ceiling prospects nearing their MLB debut: catcher Moises Ballesteros, infielders Shaw and James Triantos, and outfielders Owen Caissie and Kevin Alcantara, all playing for the Triple-A Iowa Cubs. Shaw, who was drafted 13th overall in 2023 and has played 144 minor league games, could be the first from this group to reach the majors.”
Since his promotion to Triple-A earlier this season, Shaw has posted a .260/.372/.425 line over 21 games. Although his numbers have slightly declined from his performance in Double-A, they remain strong.
Shaw was drafted with the expectation of becoming a significant power hitter at third base, following an impressive college career where he hit 53 home runs and 166 RBIs with a .320/.413/.623 slash line over 167 games.
At just 22 years old, Shaw has quickly risen to become the Cubs’ top prospect just a year after being drafted. Known more for his arm than his glove, Shaw’s offensive potential makes him a worthy candidate for a call-up.
The Cubs have struggled with third base production throughout the season, even trading for All-Star Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays, who has since struggled. With the team’s third base position yielding a poor .199/.295/.330 line this year, giving Shaw a chance could be beneficial as they prepare for next season.
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