The Chicago Cubs are preparing to deploy Matt Shaw in a super utility role for the 2026 season, following the arrival of Alex Bregman at third base. This strategic move reflects the Cubs’ desire to utilize Shaw’s diverse skill set across multiple positions, particularly with the added challenge of integrating outfield defense into his repertoire. The Matt Shaw Cubs utility role is increasingly vital as the team looks to optimize its lineup flexibility.
The utility role demands a player perform consistently across multiple defensive positions while maintaining offensive production despite irregular playing time. Shaw’s talent, athleticism, and work ethic make him a fitting candidate to handle these demands. His development into a reliable versatile asset could provide the Cubs with the adaptability needed to adapt to the grueling challenges of the season.
Developing Shaw’s Defensive Abilities Beyond the Infield
A key focus for the Cubs this spring has been expanding Shaw’s defensive capabilities, especially in the corner outfield positions. Though the team expects to keep a backup outfielder on the bench—potentially Kevin Alcantara, Dylan Carlson, Chas McCormick, or Justin Dean—having Shaw capable of providing dependable outfield defense would allow the Cubs to better manage rest days and optimize matchups throughout the season.
Matt Shaw’s adaptability could lead to enhanced lineup flexibility, giving the Cubs the ability to maneuver players efficiently depending on game situations or pitcher tendencies.
Coaching Support and Spring Training Initiatives
Cubs third-base coach Quintin Berry, who also oversees the outfield group, has been closely involved with Shaw’s transition. Berry has conducted one-on-one defensive sessions with Shaw focusing on crucial elements such as angles off the bat. Berry encouraged Shaw to maintain his infielder’s setup rather than overhauling his approach to fit the outfield, emphasizing that Shaw’s role doesn’t require him to make spectacular plays but to reliably perform his tasks.
“You’re thinking, ‘I’ve got to be this great outfielder,’ when your job is your job,”
Berry explained.
“That’s his biggest thing — don’t come out there and feel like you’ve got to go out there and make this huge impact. It’s just: be good at what you need to be good at.
He’s such a good athlete, and I think he has such great confidence in his athleticism and his ability to play defense. I think the transition is going to be very easy for him.”
— Quintin Berry, Cubs Third-Base Coach
Strategic Lineup Decisions for Optimal Matchups
According to analyst Bruce Levine, the Cubs plan to utilize Matt Shaw primarily in right field against left-handed pitchers. This approach allows Seiya Suzuki, who struggles against lefties, to shift to designated hitter duties, thereby keeping his bat in the lineup without defensive exposure. This scenario would rely heavily on Shaw’s ability to perform solidly in the outfield.
.@MLBBruceLevine shares details on the Cubs’ plan to use Matt Shaw in right field quite a bit. Specifically, when left-handers start for the opponent, Seiya Suzuki will often be at DH and Shaw figures to be in right field.
— Bruce Levine, Baseball Analyst
This tactic ensures the Cubs optimize their offensive lineup while providing necessary rest for key players. Shaw’s hitting skills against lefties, indicated by a strong 125 wRC+ last season, support his potential value in this role. Balancing defensive proficiency with offensive output remains the core challenge that Shaw faces in fulfilling this utility role.
Potential Variations in Outfield Configurations
Further lineup flexibility could arise depending on the Cubs’ assessment of Suzuki’s experimental center field role during early spring games and the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Manager Craig Counsell has suggested Suzuki will start some spring games in center field to prepare for WBC duties. Should Suzuki prove effective in center, the Cubs could deploy Crow-Armstrong and Shaw simultaneously in the outfield, creating dynamic defensive alignments to counter specific pitching matchups.
This flexibility would also allow for occasional rest days for Crow-Armstrong without sacrificing defensive quality and providing opportunities for Tyler Austin or others to DH based on their performance against left-handed pitching.
Extended Benefits of Versatility Through Matchup Optimization
Ian Happ’s performance variance based on handedness adds another layer to the strategy, with Shaw potentially offering rest or coverage options against left-handed pitchers. Shaw’s demonstrated success at the plate in such scenarios strengthens his candidacy as a regular contributor on days when the pitching matchups favor left-handed hitters.
Ultimately, if Matt Shaw can establish himself as a reliable defender in the corners of the outfield and maintain offensive effectiveness, the Cubs will significantly broaden their strategic options, particularly in confronting left-handed pitching and managing their roster over the demanding season.
These developments position Shaw as a pivotal figure in the Cubs’ 2026 campaign, opening avenues to maximize both player health and on-field performance in an increasingly competitive environment.
.@MLBBruceLevine shares details on the Cubs' plan to use Matt Shaw in right field quite a bit.
Specifically, when left-handers start for the opponent, Seiya Suzuki will often be at DH and Shaw figures to be in right field. pic.twitter.com/rQHjQ6575C
— 104.3 The Score (@thescorechicago) February 17, 2026
