CHICAGO — The Chicago Cubs are no strangers to drama in late September, but this time, it wasn’t about a swing or a pitch. It was about faith, loyalty, and the choices that define a young man’s character. Matt Shaw, the Cubs’ rookie third baseman, has found himself in the middle of a storm after missing a pivotal game in the team’s playoff push to attend the memorial service of his close friend, conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The absence drew immediate criticism. Some fans and broadcasters blasted Shaw for abandoning the team in the middle of a crucial series, with the Cubs’ postseason seeding hanging in the balance. But Shaw, who has been one of the team’s most promising young talents in 2025, stood firm in his decision.
“Whatever backlash comes is OK,” Shaw told reporters following the service. “I feel strongly in my faith that was meant to be. I felt as though it was something that was really important for me to do.”
For a 23-year-old player in his first MLB season, the spotlight has been unforgiving. Shaw, who was drafted in the first round by the Cubs and quickly rose through the system thanks to his hitting power and defensive consistency at third base, has been a fan favorite since his debut earlier this year. His clutch hits and fearless playstyle earned him comparisons to Cubs icons of the past.
Yet in the wake of his decision, Shaw has faced waves of criticism on social media and from national commentators. Many argued that as a professional athlete, especially in the thick of a playoff race, his responsibility was first and foremost to the team.
But others defended him. “Baseball is a game, but life is bigger,” one Cubs fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Shaw made a choice that showed his heart. That’s the kind of man I want representing the Cubs.”
Charlie Kirk, who passed away suddenly earlier this month, was not just a public figure but also a personal friend of Shaw. The two had bonded over their shared faith and mutual love of sports. According to Shaw, Kirk often sent him text messages of encouragement after games, especially during the early months of his MLB career.
“Charlie believed in me even when I was just a kid trying to make it through the minors,” Shaw said. “He reminded me constantly to stay grounded, to stay strong in who I am. Missing the memorial was never an option for me.”
The timing couldn’t have been worse for Chicago. Shaw’s absence came during a game against the Cincinnati Reds, a matchup that could prove decisive in determining playoff seeding. The Cubs ultimately fell short in the contest, adding fuel to the backlash aimed at their rookie infielder.
Still, team officials refrained from criticizing Shaw. Manager Craig Counsell offered a measured response, telling reporters: “We respect Matt’s decision. These are tough moments, and he did what he felt was right for him. As a team, we’ll continue to push forward.”
For Shaw, the controversy now looms as both a personal and professional test. He returned to the Cubs’ lineup the following game and delivered a sharp performance, going 2-for-4 at the plate and making several key defensive plays at third. His response on the field may help quiet some critics, but the larger debate about priorities — faith, family, and team — continues to swirl.
“Baseball will always be there,” Shaw reflected. “But you only get one chance to show up for the people who mattered most in your life. I’ll never regret being there for Charlie.”
As the Cubs march into October, one thing is certain: Matt Shaw’s rookie season will be remembered not only for his plays between the lines but also for the bold, controversial choice he made off the field — one that will shape his legacy in Chicago for years to come.
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