Following the 2023 MLB Draft, many of the top prospects drafted have quickly rose through their respective farm systems. In the case of the Chicago Cubs, their first-round pick, SS Matt Shaw, has been scorching hot at the High-A level. In 20 games with South Bend, Shaw slashed .393/.427/.655 with four home runs, four doubles, three triples, 18 RBIs, seven stolen bases, and 14 runs scored. The Maryland product has been electric. As a result, he's on his way to Double-A Tennessee to join the Smokies.
With the move to Double-A, Shaw is joining a fairly talented Smokies squad in the heart of a playoff chase. Tennessee did not win their division in the first half, so they'll need to stay in first place in the second half to make the playoffs. Shaw should certainly add value to an already quality squad.
As for Shaw, the promotion does not come as much of a surprise. The reigning Big 10 Player of the Year is tearing up the High-A level and deserving of this promotion. Now, Shaw will be able to give the Cubs organization a good indication of how close he is to the majors. Perhaps a great stint at Double-A down the stretch will allow Shaw to get the fast track to Triple-A to begin 2024. If not, he already has a strong base at the Double-A level entering next season.
Now the fun begins. With the promotion, the Cubs have another impact, top 10 prospect one step closer to the show. The more talent that is closer to the bigs, the better it is for the Cubs moving forward.
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