Matt Shaw to Start Playing Games Soon, Nico Hoerner Not Traveling to Japan
Matt Shaw hasn’t seen any playing time yet this spring due to an oblique injury suffered early in camp. Bruce Levine reported on Wednesday that Shaw likely wouldn’t be ready for the Tokyo Series, but is now reporting that Shaw will be in the lineup soon with “no hesitation or restrictions.” Those might not be conflicting statements, as Shaw’s availability for the season-opening series in Japan remains unknown.
News from Cubs camp-Rookie Matt Shaw told me and @WatchMarquee he will start playing in games the next few games with no hesitation or restrictions.Dealing with oblique issue since Feb 5th.
— Bruce Levine (@MLBBruceLevine) February 27, 2025
If there is any concern about his health, rushing him would not be smart. Shaw’s availability during the 160 games back in the US are much more important than having him there for the two games in Tokyo. The same is true for Nico Hoerner, who underwent right flexor tendon surgery after the 2024 season. The assumption all along was that he wouldn’t be ready for Japan, and that’s now been confirmed. Hoerner will not travel overseas for the first two games against the Dodgers, but will play in minor league spring games during that time and could be ready for the domestic opener.
Cubs 2b Nico Hoerner won't go to Japan with the team to open the season next month. He's still recovering from flexor tendon surgery. He'll stay back to continue his rehab.
— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) February 27, 2025
The Cubs have several options to fill in for both Shaw and Hoerner, though the less they need to lean on those backups, the better. Some combination of Gage Workman, Jon Berti, Justin Turner, and Vidal Bruján can hold down two infield spots for at least two games, but the regulars may need to step up their respective games. Shaw and Hoerner missing the Tokyo Series means little in the grand scheme of the season, but it would be disappointing for fans and the players alike.
And who knows, Shaw could still be ready if he’s able to get in enough at-bats once he returns.
