Matt Shaw's chance at making the Chicago Cubs' roster for opening day seemed uncertain due to a left oblique injury that limited his spring training games. Despite this setback, he was named to the travel group to Japan and is expected to debut on March 18 against the Dodgers. In contrast, Colson Montgomery from the White Sox also faced challenges but was optioned to Triple-A despite his ambition. Both players, first-round draft picks, symbolize the unpredictable nature of talent competition in baseball.
"He's obviously come back, proven healthy and played well," Cubs president Jed Hoyer told reporters Tuesday in Mesa, Ariz. "That really was what went into the decision."
"Everybody is a little anxious," the 23-year-old said. "If you want to be the best, you've got to envision yourself at the big-league level. Of course, I want to see myself (on the opening day roster), but also there are a lot of really good players competing for jobs..."
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