NL Central: Shaw makes the Cubs Opening Day roster

Chicago Cubs

The Cubs dropped both of their games in Japan to the juggernaut Dodgers, but projection systems still see them as the darlings in a relatively weak NL Central.

Rookie Matt Shaw grabbed a roster spot, two starts at third base and the first hit of his young career. Moving Shaw to the 26-man roster meant the Cubs designated Keegan Thompson for assignment, but there is roster fallout to keep an eye on here beyond bullpen depth.

Starting second baseman Nico Hoerner did not make the trip for the Tokyo Series and there had been a lot of speculation about which of the Cubs many infield options on the 40-man would start at second base in his stead. Due to the unique roster rules for Japan, Hoerner missing this trip does not necessarily...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Pedro Ramírez is demonstrating real power at AAA Iowa, could there be a path to MLB playing time for one of the minor's hottest hitting infielders?
May 1 2026 3:05am
Three key Twins hitters have yet to deliver on the promise they offered as prospects, and time may be running out. Plus, a closer look at Shane Smith, Daniel Schneemann, and Jack Flaherty, and the KC bullpen.
Apr 30 2026 3:05am
The Rangers offense is sputtering and a change at 2B could help kick start their offense.
Apr 29 2026 3:06am
Could Griffin Jax be the answer to the Rays' rotation depth issues? Plus, Volpe nearing a return, upheaval in Boston, and more from around the AL East.
Apr 28 2026 3:05am
The Mets are a hot mess, and the fact that they've been unlucky isn't quite enough to overlook how they've been flat-out bad--but it may still present buying opportunities. Plus: SP in PHI; C in WAS; 2B in ATL; RP in MIA; more.
Apr 27 2026 10:28am

Tools