Javier Baez Won't Take Part In Home Run Derby
4 years agoChicago Cubs shortstop Javier Baez said that he will not participate in this year's Home Run Derby. Baez has dealt with some thumb issues and wants to rest. The star shortstop may reconsider if he makes the starting lineup for the National League for the Midsummer Class, however. The 28-year-old from Puerto Rico is hitting just .227 with a .266 on-base percentage because of his free-swinging ways, but he's slugging .464 with a .730 OPS, 16 home runs, 34 runs scored, 44 RBI and nine stolen bases in 249 plate appearances this season. Baez continues to be a must-start for fantasy managers because of his power/speed combination, and although his average should come up a bit in the second half of the season, you can't expect him to be a big boost in that category anytime soon. His managers also wouldn't mind him getting a little rest during All-Star week.
Source: ESPN Chicago - Jesse Rogers
Source: ESPN Chicago - Jesse Rogers