Javier Baez Leaves Cubs-A's Game With Apparent Injury After Grounding Into Double Play

With two teams not too far behind them in the NL Central, an injury to a superstar was the last thing that the Cubs needed.

Unfortunately, it appears as though that might be just what they got. After grounding into a double play, Chicago's standout shortstop Javier Baez walked slowly off the field with an apparent injury before being replaced by David Bote on defense.

Injuries have plagued the Cubs in recent weeks. Star catcher Willson Contreras and closer Craig Kimbrel both landed on the injured list with their own ailments. Losing Baez would only make matters worse.

He fouled a ball off of his leg prior to grounding into the double play.

The two-time All-Star and 2018 Silver Slugger is having arguably his best season to date. In 111 games, he's posted a .291 batting average and an .886 OPS, both of which are career highs.

He's also slugged 28 home runs and 30 doubles while driving in 76 runs. He's been a key part of the team's offense all year long.

Fortunately for Chicago, they have a nice depth piece in David Bote. He's posted a respectable .758 OPS with 10 home runs in 300 plate appearances.

And considering that the Cubs held a hefty, late lead at the time of the injury, it's probably just precautionary. With that being said though, the Cubs better hope he's OK. Otherwise, they'll be scrambling to find a way to replace his offensive production as they try to hang on to win the division.