CHICAGO -- Chicago Cubs infielder Javier Baez will play second base on Friday against the Los Angeles Dodgers for the first time since shortstop Starlin Castro left the lineup with an ankle injury earlier this month.
Baez had mostly been playing second since being called up to the majors in early August but moved back to his natural position once Castro went down.
"We looked at it as it being an easy transition for him," manager Rick Renteria said before the game.
The Cubs decided they wanted to see Baez at shortstop instead of getting him more reps at the less familiar second base although second looks to be his position moving forward.
Or is it?
The Cubs might not know yet where all the pieces fall into place so keeping their options open could be their best bet. If any of those options include moving Castro off shortstop, or moving him off the team altogether, the Cubs aren't saying.
"Before we break we want to get (Baez) a couple of games out there (second)," Renteria said.
Baez has flip-flopped between second and short several times since making his debut. Castro also missed games being on the bereavement list last month.
The bottom line is the long-term positions for the prospects who make it to the majors are still up in the air. And that's not even including Kris Bryant, who either has third base waiting for him or will move to the outfield. The Cubs are keeping their options open by moving guys around even though it inherently delays their development at one position.
Here's the rest of the Cubs lineup as they take on Clayton Kershaw, who is seeking his 20th win of the season, and the Dodgers on Friday:
1. Arismendy Alcantara CF
2. Baez 2B
3. Anthony Rizzo 1B
4. Jorge Soler RF
5. Welington Castillo C
6. Mike Olt 3B
7. Chris Valaika SS
8. Junior Lake LF
9. Edwin Jackon P
