Javier Baez has Cubs roaring toward 2017 MLB playoffs
By Derek Snyder
The Chicago Cubs needed someone to help them heat up after the All-Star break and infielder Javier Baez has come to the rescue for Chicago.
Winning a championship is never easy, but winning two in a row is even harder to accomplish. Even though the Chicago Cubs won their first World Series since 1908 last year, they are doing everything in their power to make sure their next title comes well before the next century. That being said, Javier Baez is a large reason why the Cubs are finally getting back on track in 2017 and trending up heading into late August.
The 24-year-old infielder has been with the team since 2014, but it looks as tough he his hitting his stride in his fourth season with Chicago. According to Baseball Reference, Baez is currently hitting .272 with 20 home runs and 59 runs batted in. While those aren’t super impressive numbers by any stretch, it’s been his production since the All-Star break that should have every Cubs fan excited heading into September.
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Chicago struggled for the most part in the first half, as they were 43-45 heading into the break. For a team that arguably has the best talent in Major League Baseball, that was pretty darn concerning for most people around the league. That said, thanks in part to Baez, Chicago is now 65-57 and owns a two-game lead in the NL Central race.
The type of production Baez has provided over this last month has been crucial for a team trying to get hot at the right time. According to MLB Stats, Baez is hitting .308 with 10 home runs and 26 runs batted in since the All-Star break. That’s quite impressive for a guy who has only hit 10 total homers on the season.
Not to mention, if Chicago gets guys like Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo heating up as well, the Cubs could run away with the division by year’s end.
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There’s still a ton of baseball left to be played this season, but there’s nothing scarier in sports than a defending champion regaining its championship form. With Chicago having its next four series against Cincinnati, Philadelphia, Atlanta and Pittsburgh, expect to see the Cubs trending upward on everyone’s September power rankings.