Sep 27, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs third baseman Matt Shaw (6) runs back to the dugout during the first inning of a baseball game against the St. Louis Cardinals at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Matt Shaw: ‘Playing outfield has been fun’

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Zack Pearson | Last updated Feb 17, 2026 3:52 PM ET

With the addition of Alex Bregman this offseason, it solidified him as the team’s starting third baseman. It also gave Chicago one of the best infields in all of baseball with him, Dansby Swanson, Nico Hoerner and Michael Busch.

For Matt Shaw, he’s the odd man out in terms of starting in that infield. But it doesn’t mean he can’t make an impact.

Shaw has begun the transition to outfield in hopes of earning some valuable playing time there. Building up as a utility man was the best option for Shaw this offseason as he’s coming off a rookie season with high expectations. With Shaw taking reps in the outfield, the talented 24-year-old is enjoying his time there so far.

Playing outfield is ‘fun’ so far for Matt Shaw

Shaw caught up with the media at at Spring Training as the first preseason game approaches. Among the topics he talked about was playing outfield and how he’s enjoying making the transition to his new spot. But it’s one he’s played before.

“Yeah, outfield has been a lot of fun. I have a lot of experience out there from being a younger kid, playing a lot of outfield,” Shaw said. “I played a ton just growing up. I had two older brothers so I played outfield for them all the time. Played outfield Summer ball my freshman year and I played here and there in college a little bit too.”

Matt Shaw on playing in the outfield https://t.co/B0LsRsvoAj pic.twitter.com/MqfFsxY7cR

— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) February 16, 2026

The transition isn’t an easy one but having some experience will help. Getting those reps in Spring should help Shaw as well. Right now, Shaw’s role will be that utility guy and he should see time at both infield and outfield.

But if he can find a way to be good defensively out there and work on his timely hitting, the ceiling should remain high for him.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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