Title: Cubs Bet on Maryland Infielder Matt Shaw to Continue Draft Success Streak
Subtitle: Cubs draft pick aims to follow in the footsteps of successful college hitters, brimming with potential
Date: [Insert Date]
The Chicago Cubs have been no strangers to success when it comes to selecting college hitters in the first round of the MLB Draft. Over the past decade, they have hit the mark with all their first-round picks, and now they have their sights set on Maryland infielder Matt Shaw.
Shaw, a 21-year-old infielder, was chosen as the No. 13 pick by the Cubs on Sunday night. With a remarkable track record that includes being named the Big Ten Player of the Year and the Cape Cod League MVP, Shaw is poised to make a significant impact on the team.
The young prospect showcased his talent during his time with the Maryland Terps, boasting a remarkable .341 batting average, 24 home runs, 69 RBIs, and a 1.142 OPS in 62 games this year. Despite being overlooked during his time at Worcester Academy in Massachusetts, where he received limited college offers, Shaw has proven his worth and potential on the field.
Coming from New England, Shaw modeled his game after Dustin Pedroia, the former Boston Red Sox second baseman known for his remarkable career and four Gold Gloves. Standing at 5-foot-11 and 185 pounds, Shaw’s natural fit may not be at shortstop, considering the presence of the Cubs’ current Gold Glove shortstop who recently signed a seven-year, $177 million contract.
Shaw expressed his excitement about joining the Cubs and emphasized that his ultimate goal is to play in the big leagues and perform at a high level, regardless of his position. His positive mindset and determination highlight his eagerness to take on any challenge that comes his way.
The Cubs have a history of identifying talented college hitters and developing them into successful major league players. While Shaw may not possess the same level of potential as previous picks like Kris Bryant, he brings a different set of skills and a hunger to succeed.
Cubs Vice President of Scouting, Dan Kantrovitz, who joined the organization after the 2019 season, has been instrumental in implementing new strategies for the team’s scouting department. With Kantrovitz’s guidance, the Cubs have expanded their approach and have successfully targeted talented college hitters in recent drafts.
As the No. 13 pick, Shaw’s slot value is estimated at $4.85 million, and the Cubs have a bonus pool worth approximately $9 million. In addition to Shaw, the Cubs also selected pitcher Jaxon Wiggins from the University of Arkansas with their compensation pick (No. 68).
While Shaw’s immediate impact remains to be seen, the Cubs’ faith in his abilities bodes well for their future aspirations of becoming World Series contenders. With his impressive college track record and determination to succeed, Shaw is ready to seize the opportunity to make a name for himself in professional baseball.
Only time will tell if Matt Shaw becomes the next success story for the Cubs’ college hitter draft streak, but one thing is certain – the Cubs are betting on his potential to contribute to their long-term success.
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