CHICAGO — Chicago Cubs rookie Matt Shaw was noticeably absent from the lineup on Sunday, but not because of injury or performance. Instead, the 22-year-old chose to leave the field to attend the funeral of a close friend, conservative activist and longtime baseball fan Charlie Kirk.
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Shaw revealed Monday that he was personally invited to the memorial by Kirk’s wife, Erika. The Cubs prospect received permission from president Jed Hoyer and manager Craig Counsell to miss the game, emphasizing the organization’s support of Shaw’s decision.
“It wasn’t an easy choice, but it was the right decision,” Shaw said. “Charlie is more than just a friend—he’s like family to me. He’s supported me through everything, and I want to be there for him and his family.”
Shaw explained that his relationship with Kirk began in Arizona, long before he was drafted to Chicago. Their relationship grew quickly, cemented by their shared faith and frequent conversations. Shaw recalls Kirk texting him after almost every victory, encouraging him and reminding him to stay focused on both baseball and faith.
“He cares about people,” Shaw said. “Every game, he checks in. If we win, he’s one of the first people to text me. That means a lot to a young player trying to find his way.”
The Cubs, now in the midst of a playoff run, were not shy about letting their rookie go that day. Manager Craig Counsell stressed that baseball, while important, is not as important as the deeper moments in life.
“We talk a lot about perspective in this game,” Counsell said. “For Matt, this is about honoring someone who has made a real difference in his life. It’s bigger than baseball, and we want to support him in that.”
Jed Hoyer echoed that sentiment, noting that Shaw’s maturity in balancing personal commitments and professional responsibilities reflected positively on his character.
The funeral was held on Sunday, with hundreds of people in attendance, including friends, family and supporters. Shaw said Kirk’s wife, Erika, personally extended the invitation, a gesture that touched him deeply.
“It was difficult but necessary to be there,” Shaw admitted. “I wanted to show Erika and the family that Charlie’s influence goes beyond politics or headlines. For me, he was someone who believed in me when I was still trying to get ahead.”
Shaw returned to the Cubs clubhouse on Monday with a heavy heart but a renewed sense of purpose. He admitted that the experience gave him perspective on gratitude, friendship, and resilience.
“Charlie always reminded me to play with joy and purpose,” Shaw said. “That’s something I carry with me now. Baseball is my passion, but life and relationships are really important.”
The Cubs’ rookie will be back in uniform this week, but his absence Sunday told a larger story — one of loyalty, faith and honoring a friend who never stopped cheering him on.
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