Cubs' Javy Báez (Back) Scratched From Short-Handed Lineup

Báez scratched as Cubs’ lineup takes another painful hit originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago

The short-handed Cubs took another hit Tuesday in Cleveland when shortstop Javy Báez was scratched from the lineup because of nagging back tightness.

Báez also as out of the lineup Sunday against Pittsburgh because of the back but came off the bench to pinch-hit in the ninth.

The fact that Monday’s scheduled off day didn’t resolve the issue is a potential red flag, but manager David Ross said he doesn’t expect an injured-list move at this point for Báez.

“It loosened up much better [Monday]. Getting off the plane [Monday night] he seemed to be OK and then just came in a little stiff again [Tuesday],” Ross said. “It’s day to day, just low back stiffness/tightness. We’re just trying to get it loosened up in there.”

The Cubs are in Cleveland for just two games before taking another day off Thursday ahead of Friday’s series opener in Detroit.

“I really don’t want to push it with an off day on the back end of this,” Ross said. “If he feels better [Wednesday], he’ll be back in there.”

The Cubs were already without starters Nico Hoerner and Ian Happ, who are on the IL after their May 2 collision in the field, and fourth-outfielder Jake Marisnick went on the IL with a hamstring injury Tuesday.

Báez, a two-time All-Star whohas been heating up the past week or two, is the biggest loss so far.

He was in the original lineup batting third on Tuesday. Eric Sogard took over at short, with Matt Duffy moving up to the No. 3 spot in the order.

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