In the recently concluded season, a young talent has emerged in the Chicago Cubs' organization, demonstrating remarkable potential and versatility. At just 22 years old, Shaw exhibited impressive offensive capabilities across two minor league levels. His performance in Double-A Knoxville was notable, with a batting average of .279 and an OPS of .841 over 371 plate appearances. Not only did he show power by hitting 14 home runs, but he also displayed agility by stealing 25 bases. Upon his promotion to Triple-A Iowa in early August, Shaw continued to thrive despite facing tougher competition. In just 35 games, he hit .298 with an even more impressive OPS of .883, further solidifying his status as a rising star.
Shaw's Journey Through the Minors
In the golden days of summer, Shaw began his journey with the Double-A Knoxville team. Over the course of 86 games, he showcased a well-rounded game, combining power and speed. His batting prowess was evident, with a substantial increase in his walk rate to 12.1%, complemented by his ability to consistently reach base and drive in runs. His performance earned him a swift promotion to Triple-A Iowa in early August. Here, he faced stiffer competition but managed to elevate his game, slashing .298/.395/.488 in 35 games. According to Baseball Savant, Shaw’s exit velocity, hard-hit rate, and barrel rate were all above average, indicating a promising future. Across both levels, he amassed 21 home runs and 31 stolen bases, ending the season with a robust 146 wRC+.
From a journalist's perspective, Shaw's rapid development and consistent production at every level suggest that he is not far from making his mark in the major leagues. With the Cubs' third base position open, Shaw appears to be on track to become the starting third baseman in 2025. His combination of power, speed, and discipline at the plate makes him a valuable asset for the Cubs as they look to rebuild their roster. Despite the team's recent struggles, betting on Shaw seems like a wise investment for the future of the franchise.