Cubs' Javier Baez Out of Monday's Lineup With Bruised Heel
By Parker White
Chicago Cubs shortstop Javier Baez left Sunday's game against the Washington Nationals with a heel contusion. Unfortunately, that'll affect his status moving forward.
The star shortstop won't be in Monday's lineup against the Philadelphia Phillies. Fellow shortstop Addison Russell will get the start in his place and bat eighth.
Javier Baez out on Monday with bruised heel .He was the only Cub who had played all 44 games this season . Russell plays SS batting eighth .
— Bruce Levine (@MLBBruceLevine) May 20, 2019
Baez wanted to play tonight, which makes you believe this could just be precautionary. He's the only member of the Cubs to play in all 44 games this season, and he only missed two last year.
With a capable backup shortstop on the roster, it's the best course of action by manager Joe Maddon.
Chicago Cubs Lineup: No Javy Baez Tonight https://t.co/s20hRVLCEL pic.twitter.com/FsMmrctUu3
— Bleacher Nation (@BleacherNation) May 20, 2019
While this is the smart decision on the part of the Cubs, they are beginning a huge series tonight against the Philadelphia Phillies and former Cub Jake Arrieta. Chicago could use Baez's bat, considering he's slashing .319/.359/.595 with 11 home runs and 31 RBI so far this year.