The Chicago Cubs have made a buzzworthy announcement that will have fans clapping with excitement! The team has just revealed their Opening Day roster for the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Tokyo, and the spotlight shines brightly on top prospect Matt Shaw, who is set to make his major league debut.
All Eyes on Matt Shaw
Matt Shaw, just 23 years old, is known for his fantastic skills on the field. Drafted as the 13th overall pick by the Cubs in 2023, he has proven himself in the minor leagues with a remarkable batting average of .357 in 38 games during 2023. Shaw has not only picked things up at the plate but also shone brightly in the Double-A and Triple-A leagues this year, with many believing he is a future star.
- In the 2024 Double-A season, Shaw achieved a slash line of .279/.373/.468 over 86 games.
- In Triple-A, he hit .298/.395/.534 with seven home runs in just 35 games.
- He is considered a top-50 prospect by several baseball rankings.
Shuffling the Roster
With Shaw’s promotion, the Cubs have also made some tough decisions regarding their roster. Reliever Keegan Thompson has been designated for assignment, and pitcher Javier Assad is now on the 15-day injured list due to an oblique strain. But with challenges come new opportunities, and Shaw is ready to step up!
During this time, Shaw has the chance to shine as he is expected to start at third base. This opening comes at a crucial moment as star players Dansby Swanson and Nico Hoerner won’t be available initially, giving Shaw the perfect stage to showcase his talent.
In Good Company
Shaw isn’t alone in his journey to the majors. The Cubs have also added Rule 5 Draft pick Gage Workman to their lineup. Workman has impressed everyone during Spring Training by showing off his skills with a .424 batting average, three home runs, and three stolen bases. Interestingly, the Cubs must keep everyone they added in the Rule 5 Draft on the major league roster throughout the season, which makes this choice even more significant.
Looking Ahead to the Games
The excitement doesn’t stop here! The Cubs are not just aiming for a great start; they also have a chance to earn an extra draft pick if Shaw wins the Rookie of the Year title or finishes in the top three for MVP voting. Think about it! If Shaw shines bright, the Cubs might have a chance to make their mark in the league!
| Player | Position | 2023 Statistics |
|---|---|---|
| Matt Shaw | Third Base | .357 in 38 games |
| Gage Workman | Infield | .424 in Spring Training |
What’s Next for the Cubs?
As the Cubs prepare to face the Dodgers in Tokyo, they are not just looking at this as a game. This is more than baseball; it’s about team spirit, making memories, and the thrill of the sport. Even though some key players are dealing with injuries, the team’s determination and excitement for Shaw and Workman give the fans something to cheer for!
The Cubs will kick off their series in Japan on March 18, 2025. This game is not just an ordinary opener; it’s a chance for fans to support their team from overseas, showcasing the global love for baseball.