As the Chicago Cubs try to rebound from a disappointing series loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks, significant news surrounding utilityman Matt Shaw surfaced ahead of Friday afternoon’s matchup with the Cincinnati Reds at Wrigley Field.
Shaw has been sidelined since late June but is now back with the Cubs after completing a minor-league rehab assignment.
ESPN’s Jesse Rogers reported the update on X, confirming that Shaw, who has been dealing with a hand injury, has returned to the Cubs.
Marquee Sports Network’s Taylor McGregor reported on X that the Cubs have activated Matt Shaw from the 10-day injured list.
To make room for Shaw on the roster, Chicago optioned outfielder Kevin Alcantara to Triple-A Iowa.
Chicago Cubs’ Matt Shaw Returns From IL For Reds Series
The Cubs placed Shaw on the injured list on June 29 after he suffered a sprain in his left hand.
This was his second stint on the IL this season. Earlier in the year, Shaw spent approximately two weeks sidelined with mid-back tightness.
At 24 years old, Shaw has provided the Cubs with plenty of defensive versatility this season, seeing time at first base, second base, third base and each of the three outfield positions.
Through 56 games with Chicago in 2026, the utility player is batting .246 with a .322 on-base percentage and a .415 slugging percentage. He has also recorded four home runs, six doubles, two triples and 20 RBIs.
More About Cubs UTL Matt Shaw
The Cubs drafted Shaw 13th overall in the 2023 MLB Draft after he starred at the University of Maryland.
He reached the majors with Chicago last season but struggled during his rookie campaign, posting a .226/.295/.394 slash line across 126 games.
While Shaw has yet to establish himself as a major offensive threat, his ability to contribute at multiple defensive positions makes him a valuable piece for the Cubs.
He finished last season with 12 Defensive Runs Saved at third base. In 2026, Shaw has added three DRS in right field, which has been his primary position this season.
Chicago Cubs Right Now
The Cubs have hit a difficult stretch recently, dropping six of their last 10 games.
Chicago enters play with a 76-58 record and currently occupies the top National League Wild Card position. However, the Philadelphia Phillies are only two games behind them in the race for that spot.
The Cubs also trail the Milwaukee Brewers by seven games in the National League Central standings.
The Cubs and Reds will open their three-game series at Wrigley Field on Friday, with first pitch scheduled for 1:20 p.m. CDT.
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