Matt Shaw’s Rocky Start with the Cubs: Why Iowa Holds the Key to Solving Chicago’s Third Base Woes

The Chicago Cubs are grappling with a persistent problem at third base in the 2025 season, and all eyes are on prospect Matt Shaw. Despite a rough start with the Cubs, Shaw remains a critical piece of the puzzle for a team struggling to stabilize the hot corner. With external options looking bleak, getting Shaw back to form in Triple-A Iowa appears to be Chicago’s best bet. This article explores Shaw’s challenges, the Cubs’ third base dilemma, and why Iowa could be the launching pad for his comeback.

Matt Shaw’s Struggles in the Big Leagues

Matt Shaw, a highly touted infield prospect, arrived with significant promise after being selected 13th overall in the 2023 MLB Draft. Known for his compact swing, above-average power, and defensive versatility, Shaw quickly climbed the minor league ranks. However, his initial stint with the Cubs in 2025 was anything but smooth. In limited action, Shaw posted a batting average below .200, with a high strikeout rate and defensive miscues that raised concerns about his readiness for the majors.

The 23-year-old’s struggles weren’t entirely unexpected. Transitioning from the minors to the big leagues is a steep learning curve, and Shaw faced elite pitching without the consistent at-bats needed to find his rhythm. Despite these setbacks, his potential remains undeniable, making his development a priority for the Cubs’ front office.

The Cubs’ Third Base Conundrum

Third base has been a revolving door for the Cubs in recent years. While veterans like Patrick Wisdom have provided power, their inconsistency and defensive limitations have left the position vulnerable. Other internal options, such as Miles Mastrobuoni, lack the offensive upside to lock down the role long-term. The Cubs’ inability to find a reliable third baseman has hindered their postseason aspirations, making Shaw’s development even more critical.

External options in the 2025 free-agent market or trade landscape aren’t particularly inspiring. High-profile names are either locked into long-term contracts or come with steep acquisition costs that don’t align with Chicago’s budget-conscious approach. For a team aiming to contend without breaking the bank, investing in Shaw’s potential is a far more appealing strategy.

Why Iowa Is the Answer

Sending Shaw back to Triple-A Iowa isn’t a demotion—it’s a strategic move to rebuild his confidence and refine his skills. Iowa provides a controlled environment where Shaw can get regular playing time, face quality pitching, and work on specific aspects of his game, such as plate discipline and defensive footwork. The Cubs’ coaching staff in Iowa, led by experienced player development experts, can tailor a plan to address Shaw’s weaknesses while reinforcing his strengths.

Historical data supports this approach. Many top prospects, including Kris Bryant and Javier Báez, benefited from additional seasoning in the minors before becoming cornerstones for the Cubs. Shaw’s track record in the minors—where he hit .279 with 21 homers in 2024—suggests he’s capable of reclaiming his form with the right support.

Looking Ahead: Shaw’s Path to Redemption

The Cubs’ faith in Shaw is rooted in his raw talent and work ethic. His ability to hit for power and average, combined with his positional flexibility, makes him a potential long-term solution at third base. By focusing on his development in Iowa, the Cubs are betting that Shaw can return to Chicago as a polished player ready to anchor the infield.

For Cubs fans, patience will be key. Shaw’s journey may have hit a bump, but his upside is too significant to ignore. If he can harness his potential in Iowa, the Cubs may finally have the answer to their third base woes.