Chicago Cubs: Is Javier Baez a threat to Addison Russell’s long-term security?

The Chicago Cubs have been without shortstop Addison Russell for more than a month, and Javier Baez has done an excellent job taking over the starting duties at the position.

After landing on the disabled list with plantar fasciitis in his right foot in early August, Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell suffered another setback with his injury. The timetable for his return remains unclear.

In the time since Russell has been gone, utilityman Javier Baez filled in as the everyday shortstop. And things have gone quite well for him there. So well that it’s enough to wonder if he shouldn’t just remain the starting shortstop.

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Leave things as they are?

One thing is abundantly clear at the moment: Javier Baez is thriving as an everyday shortstop. The 24-year-old has a pretty even split of time at shortstop and second base in 2017, but shortstop has always been his natural position.

On the season, Baez is slashing .271/.315/.489 with 21 home runs and 67 RBI. Known for being somewhat streaky, the month of August was easily Baez’s best at the plate. In that month, he hit .290 with seven homers while driving in 25 runs. Despite his offensive flaws, you have a pretty good idea of what you’re going to get from Baez. He won’t walk much, and if he has two strikes on him, it’s a safe bet he’ll flail at an off-speed pitch out of the zone. But he’ll also hit for a decent average while giving you 20-plus home runs every year.

The defense has been good as well. Javier Baez is a spark plug, constantly making impressive diving stops and throws for outs. He’s a majestic-play machine. Few would argue against him being one of the most entertaining players to watch defensively.