Shaw returns to the major leagues in a triple-A outburst Chicago Cubs third base competition welcomes new variables

When the Cubs sent Matt Shaw to triple-A Iowa a month ago, the goal was to get the high-profile rookie to focus on tweaking his striking mechanics and regaining his attacking rhythm and confidence.

MLB Pipeline Cubs' No. 1 rookie (No. 18 in the Big 100) has recently been on fire in triple-A and was officially called back to the major leagues on Monday. The Cubs freed up roster space by designating infielder Nicky Lopez.

"To be honest, it feels like a real first promotion," Shaw said ahead of Monday's Marlins series, "and it wasn't really a promotion in Tokyo before." It felt amazing to be back in the big leagues from the triple-A and I called my wife and parents right after I spoke deeply with Iowa coach Marty Pevey. "

Cubs head coach Craig Counsell explained the decision: "Matt was doing well while the major league third base position continued to struggle. After all consideration, I thought it was time to give him another chance. He did well in the 3A around 75 seats. "

The 23-year-old made his debut in the major leagues this season with 18 games of 0.172/0.294/0.241 and only one hit. The home run was seen by batting coach Dustin Kelly as the epitome of aggression in the minor leagues.

Before the April 15 decentralization, Xiao was aware of the adjustment. The offseason preparations for the major league speedball unexpectedly led to an imbalance in the timing of the blow and the stance.

"It's a balance between winning and developing new talent," Conseil said over the weekend, "and when the time comes, we act decisively." "

"My goal is to be a trusted daily starter," Shaw said, "and ultimately help the team win the World Series." "

After returning to the early 5 games of 17 hits and 1 hit (5 guarantees and 1 strikeout) in the early days of 3A, Shaw ushered in a breakout: 12 5s (0.545) in the next 6 games, and recently back-to-back doubles on Thursday and Friday, including a single first inning and a goodbye home run.

"The focus is on the stability of the stance and attack strategy," Kelly revealed, "to control the leg lift and maintain an acceptable range." Regaining his pulling ability is crucial – he has been conservative in his batting, needing to find a return to right midfield and centre-right to play long, while increasing his pulling threat. "

Mental adjustment is also key. "Players sometimes need to reboot," Kelly adds, "and the big leagues are extremely fast-paced, and even more tormenting when the tide is low. A timely release at the start of the season helped him reset his form, and now the recall is just right. "