The Chicago Cubs are 34–32 on the season, following a scheduled day off, and will return to action by opening a three-game series against the Colorado Rockies. Ahead of the matchup, Chicago announced two significant roster updates.
Starting pitcher has been placed on the injured list with a left hamstring strain, further limiting the Cubs’ pitching depth. On a more encouraging note, infielder Matt Shaw has been activated from the injured list and will rejoin the lineup.
Shaw had been sidelined since late May due to back tightness but was cleared to return after a short rehab stint at Triple-A Iowa. In four games, he went 4-for-14 with an RBI, two runs scored, and a stolen base. The 24-year-old has posted a .242/.291/.400 slash line across 104 plate appearances this season. With Nico Hoerner, Alex Bregman, and Dansby Swanson all struggling offensively of late, Shaw could see an uptick in playing time as the Cubs search for consistency at the plate. Kevin Alcantara was optioned to Triple-A in a corresponding move.
Shaw’s return comes at a crucial time for Chicago. Since May 8, the Cubs have gone 7–20 and have relinquished their lead in the NL Central, making any offensive boost especially valuable.
Through 95 at-bats this season, Shaw is batting .242 with three home runs and 12 RBI. He made his MLB debut in 2025 after entering the organization as a highly regarded prospect. That rookie season proved productive, as Shaw recorded a 3.0 bWAR over 126 games, hitting 13 home runs with a .690 OPS.
Now healthy again, Shaw gives the Cubs another opportunity to evaluate his long-term role. With reports already suggesting he could be a potential trade piece in pursuit of a frontline starter, Taillon’s injury may only add fuel to that conversation as Chicago assesses its next move.