The Chicago Cubs have long been missing the versatility of their 2022 first-round draft pick Matt Shaw.

Shaw had a breakout second half last season and was continuing that theme in the early parts of this season (.323/.373/.565 in April) before a hand/wrist injury sidelined him in late June.

After two months of rehab, it appears that Shaw is finally ready to make his return to the major league roster.

Matt Shaw is likely being activated

Shaw was seen arriving at Wrigley Field on Friday, a good indication that he has completed his rehab assignments and will be activated for Chicago's series against the Cincinnati Reds.

Furthermore, indication that a roster move was coming for the Cubs happened Thursday night when the MLB transaction wire revealed that outfielder Kevin Alcantara was being optioned to Triple-A Iowa, opening a roster spot for Shaw to return.

What will Matt Shaw's role be?

Shaw was primarily a third baseman in his rookie season, but he began this season as the Opening Day right fielder for Chicago. In his rehab assignments, he spent time in left field as well as at shortstop and second base.

The Cubs defensive positioning has been shifted with the absence of an injured Dansby Swanson, forcing Nico Hoerner to shift to shortstop and Pedro Ramirez to play second base.

It would make sense for a possible platoon at second base between Shaw and Ramirez, but there's also a scenario where Shaw is in the lineup every day at a different position.