WATCH: Matt Shaw reacts to his spring debut, health update |
Tony Crumpton
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- 23 hours ago
Chicago Cubs rookie third baseman Matt Shaw spoke after his spring training debut about how he felt being back on the field, adjustments he's making at the plate and more.
“It feels 100%,” Shaw told Elise Menaker in the dugout. “It’s one of those things — you’re getting your feet back under you. You have a lot of work to do to get up to 9 innings, but it’s good to be out there and it felt really good.” Cubs manager Craig Counsell wants Shaw to have fun and get out there and play. I just want him to enjoy the day, play his 4 innings and come back feeling good and have a great day tomorrow,” Counsell said. “That’s kinda what we’re looking for at this point. He had a great day yesterday. [He] has had a number of great days in a row. We’re in good shape there and it’s just fun for him to be able to go out and play the game in front of fans, really. Counsell is high on Shaw. “Matt Shaw is going to be a really good player for the Chicago Cubs.” Watch the interview below:
Video summary/cliff-notes:
(00:01) Matt Shaw's main goal for his first game was to get at-bats and ensure he felt healthy, which he did.
(00:29) He expressed excitement about finally being back on the field after weeks of buildup, calling it "amazing."
(00:56) Shaw emphasized his aggressive approach at the plate, aiming to attack good pitches early unless the situation calls for an adjustment.
(01:25) He acknowledged the structured play schedule of alternating game days but admitted he would play daily if it were up to him.
(01:54) Looking ahead to the Tokyo series, he hopes to be part of the team but understands the decision is out of his hands.
(02:23) Shaw was surprised and appreciative of teammates praising his work ethic and demeanor as a young player.
(02:53) His mindset is focused on contributing to a World Series-winning team in any way possible.
(03:21) Compared to last year, he feels more comfortable, has stronger relationships with teammates, and is more focused on winning a roster spot.
