MESA, Ariz. — Matt Shaw’s development in right field remains a work in progress as the Chicago Cubs continue their spring training at Sloan Park. Shaw’s readiness in the outfield hinges largely on accumulating in-game experience, which provides crucial repetitions that practice alone cannot replicate. His learning curve was evident during the Cubs’ Cactus League matchup against the Colorado Rockies on Wednesday, when a tricky fly ball exposed the ongoing adjustments he must make in right field.
In the fourth batter of the game, Shaw chased a ball drifting toward the right-center field gap, a play that should have been caught by center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong. Since Crow-Armstrong lost sight of the ball initially, Shaw stretched to attempt the catch but was unable to secure it, resulting in a double for the Rockies. Shaw acknowledged that handling the right field position involves adapting to these unpredictable plays and learning to communicate effectively on the field.
Communication and Aggression Key to Shaw’s Defensive Growth
Reflecting on the misplayed ball, Shaw explained his hesitancy to make an aggressive move initially, thinking Crow-Armstrong could claim the catch.
“That’s a ball that he can’t see so normally without the sun, I think that’s his ball,”
Shaw said.
“I was a little more passive, just being like, OK, he can probably catch it. I think that was where the adjusting piece for me is, like, knowing that he is the best center fielder in baseball, but that doesn’t mean that I shouldn’t be aggressive towards balls because he’ll communicate and he’ll call me off.”
He added,
“So, that was helpful for me just to be like, OK, I’m going to be super aggressive to get the ball, but if he calls it I’ll let him take it.”
Manager Craig Counsell emphasized the importance of these real-time exchanges between Shaw and Crow-Armstrong, viewing such interactions as valuable opportunities for improvement.
“It’s a variable that they can have a conversation about and maybe improve a little bit and understand each other a little bit, so it’s a very good thing,”
Counsell said.
So far this spring, Shaw has started two contests in right field and accumulated 10 innings, recording one putout, one assist, and one error. He remains focused on gaining experience and demonstrating his readiness to take on defensive responsibilities.
“Right now, it’s just really try to get as many different reps as I can and show them I’m ready to play out there,”
Shaw stated.
Injury Sidelines Cubs Prospect Shan-Lung Long from World Baseball Classic
Separately, Cubs prospect Shan-Lung Long will miss representing Chinese Taipei at the upcoming World Baseball Classic due to a left elbow sprain. The injury originated from a collision at first base during a recent game, where Texas Rangers’ Mark Canha inadvertently hyperextended Long’s arm while attempting a catch.
Long withdrew from the tournament on Thursday, citing uncertainty about his ability to recover in time for the WBC.
“Fly across the world not knowing if I could swing a bat and then have to rehab with them versus being here, it just didn’t make sense, especially getting ready for a season,”
he explained.
“It’s more important to be fully healthy. … Obviously in the short term I want to go, but you’re more inclined to push through something that we shouldn’t push through with such a strict timeline, so we’re going to take a step back and make sure it fully heals.”
Long aims to be available for a Cactus League appearance within 10 days. As a nonroster invitee to Cubs camp, Long now has a stronger possibility to earn a spot on the opening-day roster, particularly following veteran infielder Tyler Austin’s recent knee surgery that will keep him sidelined for an extended period. Long remains focused on his recovery and preparation, preferring to concentrate on what is within his control rather than speculate on roster decisions.
Manager Counsell praised Long’s consistent performance in the minors, noting,
“He’s just been the kind of player that’s hit his way to the situation that he’s in right now. Very consistent at-bats, part of the skill set that stands out. He’s just a good all-around hitter.”
Adbert Alzolay Prepares for USA Duties in World Baseball Classic
Left-hander Adbert Alzolay completed a strong final tuneup on Thursday before departing Cubs camp to join Team USA for the World Baseball Classic. Alzolay pitched three perfect innings against the Los Angeles Angels, striking out three batters. While satisfied with his overall performance, he pointed out some discomfort with his curveballs.
Alzolay is scheduled to pitch in an exhibition game against the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday as part of his usual five-day pitching routine. He remains uncertain about the timing of his appearances during the WBC but plans to maintain his established throwing schedule to remain season-ready.
If Team USA progresses beyond pool play, the specifics of Alzolay’s role in elimination rounds have yet to be determined. He could potentially be utilized in a piggyback setup to manage pitch counts. Manager Mark DeRosa and pitching coach Andy Petitte have worked with Cubs manager Craig Counsell and pitching coach Tommy Hottovy to coordinate Alzolay’s workload to balance competitive play with readiness for the regular season.
Explaining his approach, Alzolay said,
“I’m getting treated as a starter, and there’s the pitch count so you’re going to need multiple starters again with how the pitch-count rules are throughout the first round. I’m not someone to count their eggs before they hatch. We’ve got to get there, and I know that will work itself out.”
