Javier Baez making first start at second base; Cubs preparing him for a September call-up?

After showing off his ability in the MLB Futures game during All-Star week festivities, Javier Baez is getting a chance to show off another skill.

Playing second base.

Baez is making his first start at second base for the Iowa Cubs tonight. There are many factors as to why this is newsworthy in the world of baseball, but Cubs fans are very aware. Starlin Castro.

The final landing spot for Baez if and when he makes it to Chicago is unknown. The Cubs just acquired Addison Russell from the A’s, and of course have the All-Star Castro currently manning the spot. So the move could be considered an audition of sorts. While he struggled early on at Iowa, he has leveled out and once again showing why the Cubs are so excited about him.

In all honesty the Cubs still have “open positions” at second and third. The outfield would fall into that category as well I suppose. Not many positions on this team are currently locks, outside of Anthony Rizzo and Castro. So this very well could be the beginning of a movement to prepare Baez for a late call-up, as he’s likely to play somewhere else other than shortstop upon arrival.

The anticipation within Cubs Nation will only continue to build as we get through the trade deadline, then September call-ups. Will Baez, or possibly Kris Bryant, who by the way has homered again tonight for Iowa, make the trip to Chicago this season?

Only Theo and Co. know that answer, and they might not even be sure yet. The good news is these prospects are playing at a level that will eventually force their hand. And that’s not a bad thing.