PT TOMORROW: NL Central—Baez destined for bottom of order?
Mar 16 2021
Javier Báez’s (SS, CHC) future is far from certain in Chicago, but there’s little doubt that he will be locked into their lineup as the everyday shortstop in 2021. However, his skills declined significantly in the shortened season, highlighted by his lowest contact rate (66%) since 2014, as well as subpar xBA (.222) and xPX (87) marks. With that in mind, he’s been a divisive player in the early draft season.
Part of the calculation regarding the potential for a Báez bounceback will revolve around where he bats in the Cubs’ lineup. Entering the 2021 campaign, Báez hit fifth or lower in the team’s order for 1,366 of his 2,708 career plate appearances. However, the majority of those appearances came in 2016 and 2017, his first...
Almost!
You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!
Already a subscriber? Sign in here
More From PT Tomorrow
Has Kristian Campbell's resurgent July put him on the radar for a return to the majors? Plus, SP depth in TB, BAL catching woes, and more.
Aug 4 2026 3:05am
Aug 4 2026 3:05am
We take a look at the closer situation in Arizona and potential prospect call-ups in Colorado and San Francisco, among other veterans throughout the NL West.
Aug 1 2026 3:06am
Aug 1 2026 3:06am
The Cardinals are a team that could buy or sell this weekend.
Jul 31 2026 3:05am
Jul 31 2026 3:05am
Alex Lange's days as the KC closer might be numbered. Plus, a look at the catching situation in CHW, Logan Allen improving in CLE, two hot young hitters in DET, and possible bullpen changes in MIN.
Jul 30 2026 3:05am
Jul 30 2026 3:05am
LaMonte Wade Jr. is not swinging it well, and a change should be coming in Houston.
Jul 29 2026 3:07am
Jul 29 2026 3:07am
