The Chicago Cubs are in Japan getting ready to open the regular season against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday at the Tokyo Dome. The Cubs will play two games and then head back to the United States to resume spring training before their “domestic” opening day against the Arizona Diamondbacks on March 27.

In fact, fangraphs.com lists Shaw as the Cubs starting third baseman, hitting 8th in the lineup. This old scout was fortunate to observe Shaw during Cubs spring training in Arizona. There is lots to like about Matt Shaw.