The Chicago Cubs rookie third baseman Matt Shaw has become a standout offensive force following the All-Star break, delivering impressive power numbers during a difficult period for the team. Shaw’s rise at the plate has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike, marking a significant boost in the Cubs’ lineup.
Cubs’ Third Base Woes and Trust in Shaw
Leading up to the trade deadline, the Cubs’ third base production was among the lowest in Major League Baseball, with the position’s combined wRC+ at only 50. Speculation mounted on whether the Cubs would pursue established players like Eugenio Suárez or Ryan McMahon to fill the gap. Instead, the organization chose to rely on Shaw, a former first-round pick who has outperformed expectations and become an offensive catalyst for the team.</p>
Dominant Post-All-Star Break Statistics for Shaw
Since the midseason break, Matt Shaw ranks fifth in Major League Baseball with an outstanding 1.141 OPS among hitters who have logged at least 70 plate appearances. Only elite players such as Nick Kurtz, Shea Langeliers, Shohei Ohtani, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. surpass him in this category. Shaw leads the league with a 0.456 isolated power and boasts a .779 slugging percentage, the second highest in the majors.
Additional notable achievements include:
• Fourth place in wRC+ with an exceptional 212
• Tied for seventh in home runs with eight since the break
• A strong batting average of .324, ranking 21st among qualified hitters
In stark contrast, the players considered as trade targets have struggled since leaving the Cubs. Eugenio Suárez holds a .381 OPS with the Mariners, while Ryan McMahon has produced a .661 OPS with the Yankees.
Crucial Contributions to Recent Cubs Success
Shaw’s impact was highlighted during the Cubs’ recent win against the Toronto Blue Jays, where his solo home run in the fifth inning helped secure a 4-1 victory. This key hit reinforced his status as a vital contributor to the Cubs’ offense as they navigate the rest of the season.
Future Prospects Brightened by Shaw’s Surge
As Matt Shaw continues to deliver powerful performances, Cubs supporters find renewed optimism in the team’s potential. His unexpected breakout not only addresses the struggles at third base but also lifts the overall lineup, offering hope for sustained success and a stronger finish this season.