Oct. 17--The cold weather that hovered over Wrigley Field in April caused right fielder Jorge Soler often to wear a ski mask.
Similar chilly weather is expected at this weekend to Citi Field, where the Cubs will play Games 1 and 2 of the best-of-seven National League Championship Series against the Mets.
Javier Baez, who has the task of taking over for injured Addison Russell at shortstop, seems more concerned about hitting in cold weather than playing flawless defense in it.
"I don't like the cold weather," Baez said during Friday's workout. "I'm from Puerto Rico. It's hot the whole year. I might (wear a ski mask), too. I don't think it's that cold yet."
The temperature is expected to dip into the low 40s around game time.
As for taking over for Russell, Baez said, "It feels normal to play shortstop. I've been taking ground balls the whole year here."
Third baseman Kris Bryant said the adrenaline of performing in the playoffs will offset any weather-related discomfort.
"It's not as cold as it was earlier in the year," Bryant said.
Singing Schwarber: Rookie slugger Kyle Schwarber initially was embarrassed when he learned that a video of a performance of the Middletown (Ohio) High School choir was posted on the Deadspin website.
"I don't know how that got out," Schwarber said after putting his head down.
But Schwarber took the revelation in stride, saying he received extra credit for participating and that several football teammates of his also took part.
When asked if he received an A grade for his performance, Schwarber replied with a firm yes and said, "Did you see the video?"
Extra innings: Team officials were looking closely at their pitching options before finalizing their 25-man roster, which will be announced sometime after 9 a.m. (CDT).
Baez batted .500 (11-for-22) when facing a pitcher for the second and third time in a game this season, compared to a .204 average (11-for-540 during the first at-bat.
