April 09--Second baseman Javier Baez, one of the Chicago Cubs' top prospects, is taking a bereavement leave of absence.
Baez, 22, left Triple-A Iowa after the death of his 21-year-old sister Noely.
In a statement, the Cubs said: "As many of you know, Javy and Noely shared a wonderfully close and special relationship. Javy will take a leave of absence from the Iowa Cubs to be with his family during this difficult time. Understandably, Javy has asked for privacy while he and his family mourn, and we ask Cubs fans to join us in keeping the Baez family in their thoughts and prayers."
The Iowa Cubs open play Thursday night at Memphis.
