Chicago Cubs third baseman Matt Shaw has defended his actions after missing a game to attend the memorial service for Charlie Kirk.

Shaw missed a potentially crucial 1-0 loss at the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday to visit the service for conservative activist Kirk in Glendale, Arizona. Kirk was assassinated on September 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University.

The 23-year-old said he had been personally invited by Kirk's widow, Erika, and that he was cleared to attend by team personnel.

Shaw added that he was "not concerned at all" about any negative reaction he might receive for choosing to attend Kirk's memorial and miss the Cubs' game.

"Whatever backlash comes is OK," Shaw told reporters on Tuesday. "I feel strongly about my faith and what was meant to be happened."

Shaw explained

See Full Page