Cubs stick with questionable call in NLDS Game 4 lineup vs. Brewers

The Chicago Cubs' starting lineup for Game 4 of the NLDS remains the same order that Craig Counsell has lived with for most of the team's playoff run. There were signs of life from the Cubs' offense in Game 3, scoring more than 3 runs in a playoff game for the first time since 2017, but there remains one glaring weakness in the order.

Cubs drop Game 4 lineup and fans think Craig Counsell is being stubborn

We've reached the point where Matt Shaw should not be in the Cubs' starting lineup during the playoffs. That fact is heightened by the reality that the Cubs' season will come to a close if they don't defeat the Milwaukee Brewers on Thursday night. Shaw is hitless through 17 plate appearances during the playoffs, and striking out over 41% of the time.

Shaw's defense has been what has kept him in the starting lineup, and it seems that Counsell wants to continue to lean into the team's ability to prevent runs. That is fine with a fully healthy pitching staff and rested bullpen, but with a struggling offense going up against the Brewers' ace, it seemed like the right time to take the rookie off his feet to start a game. Then, if the Cubs had a lead late in the game, Shaw could enter as a defensive replacement.

Of course, while fans may be inclined to blame Counsell, it likely needs to be pointed towards Jed Hoyer. The only other options that Counsell has for third base are Justin Turner or Willi Castro. Turner is closer to being a coach for the Cubs than he is someone capable of playing third base in an elimination game. Meanwhile, with his struggles since the deadline, Willi Castro seems to have fallen out of favor with the Cubs' manager.

In a world where third base was properly addressed at the trade deadline, Counsell almost certainly would have benched Shaw by now. Instead, he is left with no other option but to lean into the defense he offers at the hot corner.