It’s no small feat to leap the major leagues. The competition is fierce, and the pressure is insanely high. And the margin for any blunders is razor-thin. The proper guidance for a young player entering a big league field for the first time can make all the difference. Luckily, Matt Shaw has a seasoned mentor in the Cubs clubhouse, one who has significant experience with what it takes to reach the highest level.

The mentor is none other than the $177 million shortstop Dansby Swanson. During an interview, he recently shared some key takeaways for Shaw as he gears up for his MLB debut.

Swanson stated, “Pretty simple, the best advice that I got when I was young but also the worst because it’s basically that you have to figure out what works for you.”.

He added, “And I think that, the more that you play, the more that you get experience. And the only way to get experience is by playing…” It’s the same in most sports as practice makes a man perfect. It will help the player gain more experience for future games. Therefore, mentors remain crucial in sports.

His words underscore a harsh truth about baseball—there’s no magical formula for success. Each player has to navigate their own learning curve. The only way to truly refine is by being on the field and doing the work.

Although, Shaw will have to find his rhythm, as in what works for him. But he won’t be doing it all alone. Swanson said, “It’s going to be on him to figure those things out, but obviously, I’m here at every step of the way to help and do whatever I can, but he’s going to be just fine.” Receiving this kind of veteran support is unparalleled.

With a mentor like Dansby Swanson guiding him all the way, he’s in safe hands as he takes this big step.

Chicago Cubs rookie Matt Shaw shines in Tokyo, locking in his role at third base

Some moments define a player’s entry into the big leagues quite like a clutch hit on an international stage. And for Matt Shaw, that moment came in Tokyo. While the Cubs were refining their game against the Yomiuri Giants before heading into the regular season, all eyes were on the team’s final lineup decisions. When the opportunity knocked, Shaw stepped up and delivered.

During the top of the fifth inning, two runners were on and the Cubs were already leading; Shaw swiftly laced a two-run single to right field, extending the score to 4-0. It was more than just a hit; it was a showstopper.

A team insider said, “He’s got that composure, that ability to deliver in big moments.” He added, “That’s the kind of thing you want to see from a guy earning his spot.” And he earned it!

There was ongoing debate on whether Shaw could crack the opening-day roster, but his spring training stats were encouraging—.313/.421/.375 with four RBIs, five hits, and a stolen base.

His stats in Tokyo were the final push the Cubs required to lock him in as their starting third baseman. And now, if his recent performance gives us any hint, he’s all set to hit the spotlight. It’s such an exciting sneak peek into the future for the Cubs fans. Chicago is clearly in for something incredible to come.