Javier Baez

It was supposed to last for two days only, but it may last the rest of the season and beyond. On Wednesday, July 9, the Chicago Cubs called up prospect Arismendy Alcantara to fill in at second base for two days while Darwin Barney took a paternity leave to watch his new baby enter the world. Alcantara, though, made such an impression on manager…

The Chicago Cubs have given their fans very little reason to cheer at the Major League level since their two straight N.L. Central titles in 2007 and 2008. In fact, the last two years saw them lose 101 and 96 games, respectively. This year promises to end no better. At 20-33 entering play on June 1, the Cubs are on pace to finish 61-101 for the…