Chicago Cubs: Javier Baez has no desire to play anywhere else
Javier Baez has not been shy about his desire to remain with the Chicago Cubs. He had stated last year that he hoped to come to terms on an extension to remain in Chicago, but the pandemic put any thoughts of that happening on hold. Then the Cubs initiated a fire sale, leading to the speculation that anyone making a decent amount, or in the final year of their contract, would be on the trade block.
Now that spring training has begun, Baez finds himself in a familiar place. And it is a place he does not want to ever leave.
Cubs shortstop Javier Báez said he will “probably” put a deadline on extension talks in spring training, so it doesn’t become a distraction during the season: “Obviously, I want to stay here. I don’t want to play for another team.”
— Patrick Mooney (@PJ_Mooney) February 26, 2021
The ball is in the Chicago Cubs court with Javier Baez
Obviously, that loyalty goes so far. Baez does not want talks to extend into the season, which makes perfect sense as he wants to focus on the games instead of his contract. Likewise, his desire to remain in Chicago will not result in his completely underselling his earning potential.
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If the Cubs are interested in extending Baez, this is the perfect time. Yes, they would need to get it done now due to his impending free agency, but the Cubs’ infielder is also coming off of a difficult year with the bat. He produced a disappointing .203/.238/.360 batting line in 235 plate appearances, striking out 75 times with just seven walks.
That disappointing showing does not change what Baez has been for the Cubs. He has been excellent defensively regardless of where he plays, taking home the NL Gold Glove at short last season. Baez had also combined for a .282/.320/.525 batting line over the previous three years, hitting 86 homers and 102 doubles in his 1714 plate appearances.
As the Cubs look to revamp their roster, Baez is the perfect piece to build around. His ability to play at either second, third, or short would give the front office plenty of options to construct the roster. Likewise, if he can return to form, his bat would play up anywhere in the lineup.
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Javier Baez wants to remain with the Chicago Cubs. As they look to revamp their roster, locking him in would be a good place to start.