The Cubs are planning to activate Matt Shaw from the injured list prior to the start of their series against the Rockies at Coors Field on Tuesday, according to a report from ESPN’s Jesse Rogers. The club hasn’t confirmed the news.
Shaw, who has been on the IL with back tightness since May 22, began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Iowa on June 2. The 24-year-old was struggling before his IL stint, starting off May 1-for-22 (.045) after producing a .301/.342/.507 slash with three homers and 10 RBIs over his first 28 games this season.
A former top prospect, Shaw was the Cubs’ starting third baseman for much of his 2025 rookie campaign, but he’s moved into a utility role after the team signed Alex Bregman in free agency during the offseason to man the hot corner.
Shaw has played every position besides pitcher, catcher and shortstop in 2026, though he’s started only 23 of the 42 games in which he’s appeared.
With the Cubs searching for a spark amid a 7-20 stretch, the opportunity could be there for Shaw to earn more playing time if his bat heats up quickly in his return.