MILWAUKEE — The Cubs could be showcasing Javier Baez, getting his timing down for a promotion and/or making him work on the swing-and-miss issues that have held him back.
So whether it’s preparing for a blockbuster trade, hoping he’s a spark for the stretch run or checking the player-development boxes, Baez is a wild card in the plans carefully designed by Theo Epstein’s front office.
Since Kris Bryant, Addison Russell and Kyle Schwarber are essentially untouchable, Baez is the next man up in terms of higher-profile, ready-for-impact young players within the farm system.
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The San Diego Padres have pitching to trade — the Cubs are targeting Tyson Ross in particular — and need a building-block shortstop.