Introduction to the Controversy
CHICAGO (AP) — Chicago Cubs third baseman Matt Shaw insisted he has no regrets about missing a game to attend the memorial for his friend Charlie Kirk, saying he had an invitation from the right-wing commentator’s widow and permission from the team to attend the event in Glendale, Arizona.
Background on the Relationship
Shaw said Tuesday that Kirk’s widow Erika texted asking him to attend the event, and he was “not concerned at all” about any backlash toward him for going. He said he and Kirk lived in the same apartment complex in Arizona and connected through their faith.
Shaw’s Decision and Faith
“Whatever backlash comes is OK,” Shaw said. “I feel strongly in my faith that was meant to be.”
Reaction on Social Media
Cubs rookie Matt Shaw discusses his decision to leave the team Sunday to attend Charlie Kirk’s funeral and his relationship with Kirk.
Shaw says Kirk texted him after almost every game and was a big Cubs supporter. @WGNNews pic.twitter.com/leZtoF1odw— Josh Frydman (@Josh_Frydman) September 23, 2025
Connection with Charlie Kirk
Kirk, a Chicago area native, would text Shaw after Cubs games. He posed for a photo with Shaw and Chicago infielder Michael Busch on the Cubs’ dugout following a game at Wrigley Field in August.
Shaw missed a 1-0 loss at Cincinnati on Sunday that had seeding ramifications for the playoff-bound Cubs. They’re trying to secure the top wild card and homefield advantage that comes with it in the opening round. The Cubs had an off day on Monday, so this was the first opportunity to ask Shaw about the decision to attend the memorial.
The Decision to Attend the Memorial
“I felt as though it was something that was really important for me to do,” he said.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Matt Shaw’s decision to attend Charlie Kirk’s memorial has sparked controversy, but Shaw remains unapologetic, citing his faith and personal connection with Kirk as the reasons for his attendance. The Cubs’ management and teammates have not publicly commented on the matter, but it will be interesting to see how this situation unfolds in the coming days.
FAQs
Q: Who is Charlie Kirk?
A: Charlie Kirk was a right-wing commentator and a Chicago area native.
Q: Why did Matt Shaw attend Charlie Kirk’s memorial?
A: Shaw attended the memorial because he was invited by Kirk’s widow, Erika, and had a personal connection with Kirk through their faith.
Q: Did the Cubs’ management approve of Shaw’s decision to attend the memorial?
A: Yes, Shaw had permission from the team to attend the event.
Q: How did Shaw’s decision affect the Cubs’ game?
A: Shaw missed a 1-0 loss at Cincinnati on Sunday, which had seeding ramifications for the playoff-bound Cubs.
