WATCH: Matt Shaw shares adjustments he made at Triple-A |
Tony Crumpton
· · Monday, May 19 2025
Chicago Cubs rookie Matt Shaw met with the media ahead of Monday's road game against the Miami Marlins about what adjustments he made while at Triple-A Iowa, how president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer and manager Craig Counsell view him as potentially "the guy" at third base, and much more.
Watch the pregame video below:
Video summary/cliff-notes:
(00:00–00:17) Matt Shaw discusses lowering his leg kick and improving timing to increase consistency at the plate.
(00:17–00:37) He mentions that stepping back and breathing after a hectic start to the season (including a trip to Japan) helped him reset mentally.
(00:37–01:25) Shaw shifted focus from just making contact to driving the ball more effectively—returning to his natural hitting approach.
(01:25–01:43) He made several mechanical and mental adjustments quickly after being sent to Triple-A, helping him get back on track.
(01:43–02:16) The decision to reduce his leg kick was developed in consultation with hitting coaches, aiming for better timing and consistency.
(02:16–02:34) A more upright posture has helped Shaw generate more power in recent games.
(02:34–03:14) Shaw acknowledges the confidence Cubs management has in him, but he remains focused on earning his role through performance.
(03:14–03:54) The leg kick change is based on feel and consistency in-game rather than modeled after other players.
(03:54–04:14) He compares the new approach to his typical two-strike stance, making it familiar and comfortable.
(04:14–04:35) About a week to a week and a half ago, Shaw started seeing results—extra-base hits and better contact—which confirmed he was back to form.
