Cubs’ Matt Shaw Makes 2025 Cactus League Debut — Is the Tokyo Series in the Cards?
Early Impression
Late last week, Cubs top prospect Matt Shaw called veteran corner infielder Justin Turner over to his locker. The 23-year-old third baseman used four pieces of athletic tape to secure a sheet of printer paper to one side. At the top was Turner’s full name and date of birth, written in pen. And under it, Shaw had outlined Turner’s whole career, from 2006, when he was drafted by the Reds, to present.
"I thought it’d be a funny kind of little thing," Shaw said, "but also respectful to show him that he’s had a really amazing career and to show my interest in that."
Cactus League Debut
Shaw, slowed by an oblique injury, didn’t make his Cactus League debut until Sunday. But he ingratiated himself with teammates – those he knew from his first big-league camp last year and those the Cubs brought in more recently – with his work ethic, poise, and curiosity before ever entering a game this spring.
Shaw took the first step Sunday, when he played four innings in the Cubs’ 7-3 loss to the Reds. Starting at third base and batting second in the order, Shaw grounded out twice and popped out in foul territory once in three at-bats.
"I just want him to have him enjoy the day," manager Craig Counsell said before the game, "and play his four innings and come back feeling good and have a great day tomorrow."
Ramping Up
Shaw is scheduled to play every other day to begin his ramp-up. The Cubs are prioritizing his long-term health and don’t see a need to rush the buildup before his major-league debut. The fact that he hasn’t yet played in a major-league game also makes projecting timelines trickier than it would be for an established player.
Tokyo Series in the Cards?
The Cubs only have eight days of games left before flying to Japan. But they haven’t ruled out the Tokyo Series for Shaw.
"Personally, I think that I’ve put in a lot of time and effort to be ready for this situation," said Shaw, noting that he’d play every day if they’d let him. "But it’s out of my hands. So, I’m going to keep trying to do what I do every day and be consistent. And if I get the opportunity to go, I’ll be overjoyed. And if not, that’s just part of the process."
Learning from Veterans
This spring is different than last for Shaw. He wasn’t poised to make the team out of camp in 2024, but the Cubs brought him in to learn from and make connections with major-leaguers such as shortstop Dansby Swanson and second baseman Nico Hoerner.
Now, he’s competing for a job. But he’s still soaking up lessons from veterans. This year, as Shaw continues to settle in at third base, he has Turner to lean on. Though the Cubs brought in Turner, 40, for his bat and plan to primarily play him at first base when he’s in the field, he spent most of his decorated career at third.
"We’ve had already several, for how young he is, really advanced conversations about hitting," Turner said of Shaw. "Some advanced conversations about defense and playing third base, which is a fairly new position for him — which, I was in the same boat."
Conclusion
Shaw has made a strong start in his Cactus League debut, and his impressive work ethic and poise have already made an impact on his teammates. While his Tokyo Series debut is still uncertain, he remains focused on his development and is eager to take advantage of any opportunities that come his way.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When will Matt Shaw make his major-league debut?
- Shaw’s exact timeline is uncertain, but he is expected to play every other day to begin his ramp-up.
- Is the Tokyo Series in the cards for Matt Shaw?
- The Cubs haven’t ruled out the Tokyo Series for Shaw, but it’s uncertain at this point.
- How is Matt Shaw’s progress being evaluated?
- The Cubs are prioritizing his long-term health and don’t see a need to rush the buildup before his major-league debut.
