Chicago Cubs Player Matt Shaw Absent from Game to Attend Memorial Service for Friend Charlie Kirk

Chicago Cubs Player Matt Shaw Absent from Game to Attend Memorial Service for Friend Charlie Kirk

Chicago Cubs player Matt Shaw was absent from the team's game against the Cincinnati Reds to attend a memorial service for Charlie Kirk in Arizona. While the Cubs did not confirm Shaw's reason for being away, manager Craig Counsell mentioned that he was at a funeral for a friend.

Counsell stated that Shaw was unavailable for the game as he attended the funeral of a friend. The 23-year-old had a personal connection with Kirk, as they were pictured together at Wrigley Field last month. Shaw was previously scratched from the lineup on the day Kirk was killed for personal reasons but later entered the game as a pinch hitter.

Kirk's memorial service at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, drew over 90,000 attendees. The Cubs, along with other MLB teams, paid tribute to Kirk and called for an end to political violence.

The flag at Wrigley Field was flown at half-staff following MLB's request to honor Kirk in accordance with President Donald Trump's proclamation. The New York Yankees also honored Kirk at Yankee Stadium.

Despite the loss to the Cincinnati Reds, the Chicago Cubs have already secured a playoff berth. Fans can stay updated on sports coverage by following Fox News Digital and subscribing to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.