Javy Baez is not the Chicago Cubs’ starting shortstop. That’s Addison Russell. And, defensively-speaking, it’s Russell who is probably the better overall shortstop.
But when it comes to incredible plays, I’m not sure there are too many in all of baseball that compare to Baez.
A half-inning after giving the Cubs a more comfortable lead in the bottom of the 8th inning with a monster blast, Baez did his part to ensure that the lead stood up in the Cubs’ win by making one of the best plays you’ll see this season.
And, you know, it might be the best play of the year so far for the Cubs (via @MLB):
106 mph off the bat?
Still can’t hit it past Javy. pic.twitter.com/rFqLalQHoV
— MLB (@MLB) August 18, 2017
That thing was 106 mph off the bat, DEEP in the hole. Getting a glove on it at all is impressive, but having the body control to actually SNAG the ball? And then the easy arm strength to get it over quickly to first?
Javy Baez is so freaking special. That play blew my mind as it happened live – I literally jumped out of my chair – and I can’t get enough of watching the replay.
Check out Albert Almora in the background when the camera pans to Baez after the play. He can’t believe it.
El Mago.