Cubs' Javier Baez (thumb) unlikely to return in the regular season

Chicago Cubs infielder Javier Baez (thumb) is "unlikely to play this month, will rehab rest of the way."

What It Means:

After a visit with a hand specialist, Baez was told his ulnar collateral ligament was still intact with a return likely to occur during a possible playoff run. Expect Nico Hoerner to start at shortstop with Addison Russel also dealing with an injury.

In 530 at-bats this season, Baez is hitting .281 with 29 home runs and 85 RBI.