Chicago Cubs: Matt Shaw’s next six weeks could define his future

Matt Shaw’s performance since returning from an IL stint for back tightness has been very encouraging. He is batting .292 (7-for-24) with seven RBI, two triples, and a home run. He recorded a walk-off bases-loaded walk to secure a thrilling 5-4 win over the Colorado Rockies on June 16th. And on Saturday, he blasted a 390-foot, three-run homer against the Toronto Blue Jays.

He has been used as a utility player after the signing of Alex Bregman in the off-season. He spoke about how it felt like being in the Little Leagues, being moved around. But he also acknowledged it has not been easy for him being a super sub. He has already played six positions.

But in the wake of Seiya Suzuki’s injury against the San Francisco Giants on June 14th, he is playing right field more. Matt Shaw’s performance between now and the trade deadline isn’t just important. It’s pivotal.

The Chicago Cubs need Matt Shaw to hit — for one reason or another

This isn’t just another young player getting reps. Instead, it is a player whose future could be determined in the next 30-40 games. Shaw may become a foundational piece of the Cubs’ future. Or, he could become the centerpiece of a trade package designed to salvage a season that’s slipping away.

The Cubs’ offense is inconsistent and weighed down by underperforming veterans. Therefore, they need someone young, athletic, and dynamic. The Cubs hope Shaw will give the team a much-needed shot in the arm along with Pete Crow-Armstrong.

If he hits, the Cubs gain something they desperately lack: a young, cost‑controlled infielder who can be part of the next core. In addition, with Seiya Suzuki becoming a free agent after this season, Shaw could prove he is the right fielder of the future if he produces well. He must also play decent enough defense to move on from Suzuki.

But here is the downside to Shaw producing: he also becomes a valuable trade asset. The uncomfortable truth is the Cubs need pitching. Desperately.

Their rotation is a MASH unit. Their bullpen is thin. And the pitching market is always expensive.

If Shaw hits, his value skyrockets — and suddenly, the Cubs have something they can use to acquire a legitimate, controllable arm at the deadline. This applies if the Cubs are still in the playoff race. Even if they are out of it, Jed Hoyer may still pull the trigger, because Matthew Boyd, Jamison Taillon, and Shota Imanaga are all free agents after this season.

For Shaw, it probably does not matter whether he is still with the Cubs or playing for a new team after the deadline. He needs to keep producing anyway. For this reason, every at‑bat he takes between now and late July carries significant weight.

Whether he becomes a building block or a trade chip, the Cubs need him to be something.

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