WATCH: Matt Shaw reacts to making the Cubs roster, going to Japan |
Tony Crumpton
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- Tuesday, March 11 2025
Chicago Cubs third baseman Matt Shaw spoke to the media talking about how he received the news of traveling with the team to Japan, on other Cubs prospects making impact on the ball club in spring training and more.
“I've been preparing for this opportunity for my entire life,” Shaw said. “It just came down to, 'Will they let me play?'” Shaw is excited about the possibilities. “I haven't seen the lineup for Game 1 against the Dodgers, obviously,” Shaw said. “But actually being out there, making my debut hopefully, playing against the reigning World Series champs ... I mean, how amazing would that be?” Watch the interview below:
Video summary/cliff-notes:
(00:00) Matt Shaw was super excited when Craig Counsell informed him he was going to Japan, describing it as a moment he had been waiting for.
(00:34) Although thrilled, he remained composed when receiving the news, but internally, he was ecstatic about the opportunity.
(01:07) He has not yet seen the lineup for the first game against the Dodgers but hopes to make his MLB debut against the reigning champions.
(01:39) The uncertainty of whether he would be selected made the packing process stressful for him and his wife, but they remained hopeful.
(02:09) He formed strong bonds with fellow young players like Gage Workman, Ben Cows, and Nikki Lopez while training together, making the experience even more special.
(03:10) Despite limited time to prove himself, he felt confident in his preparation, having been with the team since New Year's Eve and training extensively.
(03:44) He believes the Cubs don’t necessarily move players through the system quickly but appreciates their trust in him.
(04:19) His playing time and patience from the organization depend on his performance, particularly at third base and against major-league pitching.
(04:52) He avoids social media but acknowledges its role in sports, noting that sometimes the media knows about his situation before he does.
(05:54) No one played any pranks on him regarding his selection for the trip, and he is relieved and excited to be heading to Tokyo.
