Cubs reportedly set to activate Javier Baez prior to Friday’s game versus Rockies
The Des Moines Register broke the story Thursday afternoon that was confirmed after the Cubs completed the three-game sweep of the Reds. The Cubs plan to activate Javier Baez prior to Friday’s game against the Colorado Rockies.
Joe Maddon said in his post-game press conference that he anticipated a decision “very soon” on Javier Baez. Multiple reports shortly after Maddon talked to the beat writers surfaced indicating Baez will be activated from the disabled list before the Cubs begin a three-game series with the Rockies on Friday afternoon.
Munenori Kawasaki is expected to be optioned to Iowa to make room on the roster for Baez.
Javier Baez played his fourth rehab game with Triple-A Iowa on Thursday. Baez started the game in left field, finished it at third base and went 2-for-4 at the plate with a run scored. Baez was 4-for-15 with a home run and four strikeouts in four games with Iowa. Baez played four different positions (second base, third base, shortstop and left field), starting in left field in two of the four games.
Joe Maddon believes Baez will hit enough in the majors and can be the super-utility man for the Cubs this season. Maddon knows Baez requires regular at-bats. While he may not have a set position, Baez will see a lot of playing time in the infield and outfield.
According to Patrick Mooney, the Cubs are “still looking for internal options” in left field to take the position that opened when Kyle Schwarber was lost for the season. Jorge Soler has performed well a majority of the time over the last week and could end up playing his way into the team’s primary left fielder.
The Cubs have not announced Javier Baez has been activated from 15-day DL or the corresponding roster move, which is expected to be optioning Munenori Kawasaki to Iowa.
