BREAKING: Cubs Manager Craig Counsell Hints at Possible Call-Up for Matt Shaw Ahead of Marlins Series

May 19, 2025 – Chicago Baseball Insider

As the Chicago Cubs prepare to host the Miami Marlins in an important early-season series, manager Craig Counsell has confirmed that the team is seriously considering calling up top infield prospect Matt Shaw from Triple-A Iowa.

Shaw, who has been on a tear to start the 2025 season, is making a compelling case for promotion. In just 23 games with the Iowa Cubs, Shaw is slashing .302/.371/.542 with 6 home runs and 14 RBIs, and scouts across the league have taken notice of both his offensive consistency and defensive reliability.

“We’re having conversations,” Counsell told reporters Monday afternoon. “Matt has done everything we’ve asked of him. He’s performing at a high level, and he’s putting himself in position for a call-up.”

Though Counsell didn’t confirm whether Shaw would be in uniform when the Marlins arrive at Wrigley Field this weekend, the buzz around the club suggests that the 23-year-old shortstop may be suiting up in Chicago sooner rather than later.

A Rising Star in the Cubs’ System

Matt Shaw, a former first-round draft pick out of the University of Maryland, has quickly climbed the ranks of the Cubs’ farm system. He was one of the standout performers in spring training, impressing coaches with his bat speed, plate discipline, and ability to handle both shortstop and second base.

Ranked as one of the Cubs’ top five prospects, Shaw has long been considered part of the club’s future. But now, his present might be arriving sooner than expected.

“He’s one of the most advanced college hitters we’ve had in the system in years,” said a Cubs scout who requested anonymity. “He’s forcing the front office to make a decision.”

Timing Is Everything

The potential call-up comes at a time when the Cubs could use an offensive jolt. Chicago’s infield has been inconsistent at the plate, and with a few injuries nagging the roster—most notably to second baseman Nico Hoerner—the timing could be perfect for Shaw’s debut.

Additionally, the Cubs are entering a stretch of 13 games in 14 days, and fresh legs with hot bats are exactly what the team needs to stay competitive in a tightly contested NL Central division.

“We’re trying to balance performance, need, and development,” Counsell explained. “But when a guy is hitting .300 with power and plays good defense, you have to take a serious look.”

Shaw’s Perspective

Though Shaw has not spoken publicly about the potential promotion, those close to him say he remains focused and humble.

“Matt’s not thinking about the call-up—he’s thinking about his next at-bat,” said Iowa Cubs hitting coach Desi Wilson. “That’s the kind of competitor he is. But don’t get it twisted—he’s ready.”

His Triple-A stats back that up:

• .302 batting average

• .913 OPS

• 6 home runs

• 14 RBIs

• 3 stolen bases

• .982 fielding percentage across shortstop and second base

What Would His Role Be?

If Shaw is called up, it remains unclear whether he would start immediately or serve as a utility infielder. However, with the Cubs’ recent struggles in situational hitting and their desire to inject energy into the lineup, fans shouldn’t be surprised to see Shaw in the starting lineup sooner rather than later.

Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer has long emphasized player development, but he’s also shown a willingness to move aggressively when prospects prove themselves ready.

“We want to compete now,” Hoyer said during a recent interview. “If a player is the best option to help us win, he’ll be here.”

Fan Excitement Building

News of Shaw’s possible debut has already created a stir on social media, with Cubs fans flooding platforms like X (formerly Twitter) with calls to “#FreeMattShaw.”

“He’s earned it,” said longtime fan Maria Delgado outside Wrigley Field. “We need someone who can hit and spark this team. Shaw is that guy.”

Final Decision Coming Soon

As the Cubs finalize their roster ahead of Friday’s series opener against the Marlins, all eyes will be on whether Matt Shaw gets the call. If he does, it would mark the beginning of what many believe could be a long and successful MLB career.

Regardless of the timing, one thing is clear: Matt Shaw is knocking loudly on the door to Wrigley—and the Cubs may be ready to answer.