Is there a Cubs Game Today?

Yes. Finally. The Cubs are on the road in Arizona.

JOT Update

Kris Bryant, Javier Baez, Addison Russell, and Jorge Soler all homered last night. Baez started at second base last night. He looked OK. There were a couple of batted balls that a player with great range would have at least gotten closer to, if not made the play. He also struggled with his footwork on one of the three double plays he turned, but that shouldn’t be a problem after he gets a few more reps.

Bonus OV HitTracker Data

I am as skeptical of Baez’s major league future as any Cubs fan (because: K’s), but in the two I-Cubs games I have seen in person this year, he has gone 6 for 9 with two homers and three doubles. Both homers were massive, and his double last night was a low liner that hit the middle of the wall down the left field line. It has been enough to turn any curmudgeon into Jason Parks where Baez is concerned.

Update: Video for Baez and Bryant homers.

Draft Signing Deadline

Today at 4 pm is the signing deadline for draftees. The Cubs have mostly wrapped up their class. The big story involves top overall pick Brady Aiken and the Astros. I started typing my thoughts on that situation, but it really deserves its own post. That should be up shortly.

Hear, hear!

• Craig Calcaterra has an excellent piece up on the drudgery that preceded the all-star game telecast.
• Rany pays tribute to Mark Buerhle.
• Jeff Sullivan agrees that “too many shortstops” is not something to worry about in the Cubs’ case.