Cubs' Javier Baez Takes Leave Of Absence

Sad news to report today from Iowa, as Javier Baez is taking a leave of absence from the team to be with his family after the death of his sister, Noely.

We're so sad to share Javy Baez’s sister, Noely, passed away last night at the age of 21. They shared a special bond: http://t.co/CFfIyMGYn2

— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) April 9, 2015

Javy will take a leave of absence to be with family. We ask to respect their privacy while keeping his family in your thoughts and prayers.

— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) April 9, 2015

Noely Baez was 21 years old and was born with spina bifida. The link in the tweet above is to an excellent story that was written by Carrie Muskat on December 23, 2013 about the bond that Javy shared with his sister:

On Christmas Day, Javier Baez will gather with his family to celebrate, just as others do, but for them, every day is a holiday because of his sister, Noely.

"[Christmas] is very, very special," said Baez, the Cubs' top prospect. "When my sister was born, doctors said she wouldn't last 20 minutes, that she wouldn't last from one room to another one. Last November, she turned 20. Every day is special."

Our thoughts are with Javier Baez and his family during this difficult time.