Series Preview: Javier Baez Wrigley Field debut, Rays at Chicago Cubs

Javier Baez will make his much anticipated Wrigley Field debut Friday afternoon in the Chicago Cubs there-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Baez put his talents on display with three home runs in as many games since his call-up, including two in Wednesday night’s 6-2 win over Colorado. The Cubs (49-64) have won three straight series despite being on their way to their fifth straight losing season.

After winning 11 of 12 to climb back into the American League wild-card race, Tampa Bay (55-59) have lost five of seven.

All games on WGN-AM 720

Friday: 3:05 p.m., WGN

RH Chris Archer (7-6, 3.42) vs. LH Tsuyoshi Wada (1-1, 3.32)

Saturday: 3:05 p.m., WGN

RH Jake Odorizzi (7-9, 4.09) vs RH Edwin Jackson (6-11, 5.66)

Sunday: 1:20 p.m., CSN

RH Alex Cobb (7-6, 3.52) vs LH Travis Wood (7-9, 5.08)

Who’s Hot: Brad Boxberger has not allowed a run in his last 15 appearances. Chris Coghlan was 9-for-20 and Starlin Castro was 11-for-25 on the Cubs’ recent road trip. Wada has allowed three runs in his last two outings, including one run over seven innings for his first major league win.

Who’s Not: Chris Archer (7-6) went 0-1 with a 6.35 ERA in his first four starts on the road. Kevin Kiermaier is 3-for-25 and Desmond Jennings 6-for-33. Justin Ruggiano is 3-for-16 while Anthony RIzzo was 4-for-22 on the trip, but did sit out Wednesday’s game.

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