Chicago Cubs: Javier Baez Crushes Long 9th Inning Home Run in World Baseball Classic (Video)

Watch Chicago Cubs star infielder Javier Baez crush a deep ninth inning home run for his native Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic.

The Chicago Cubs are full of young and talented star players. Perhaps none are more popular than utility infielder Javier Baez. Baez does not even have a full-time position with the Cubs, but his flashy defensive plays and ridiculous raw power make him an obvious fan favorite.

Baez is the starting second baseman for his native Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic. He forms one-half of an incredible double-play combination with shortstop Francisco Lindor, as Carlos Correa holds the fort third base. It is safe to say that Puerto Rico is loaded on the infield.

Baez crushed a long ninth inning home run for Puerto Rico on Saturday night. You can see the blast below, but first, let’s set the scene. Puerto Rico entered their half of the ninth up 5-4 to Mexico.

With two outs and Lindor on first base, Carlos Beltran hit a weak pop up in foul ground down the third base line. It was an easy play for catch Xorge Carrillo to make, but he inexplicably dropped the ball. Joakim Soria then walked Beltran to keep the inning alive. Yadier Molina roped a single up the middle to score Lindor. Puerto Rico then led 6-4.

Then Javy Baez stepped up to put the game away:

I love the way Baez just set his bat down on the ground. Respect your equipment, kids.

Nobody in baseball swings harder than Javy Baez. It certainly gives him trouble sometimes, but when he connects, the ball rockets out of the ballpark.

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Puerto Rico and the Chicago Cubs have an absolute star on their hands. Simply put, he is one of the most exciting players in baseball to watch.

Baez and Puerto Rico (2-0) will take on Italy (1-1) this afternoon in Mexico. Make sure to tune in. When Javier Baez is on the field, you never know what you could miss.