Russell closer to return, heads to Class AAA Iowa
Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell takes the next step in his return to the team Wednesday when he begins a stint at Class AAA Iowa.
Russell has been on the suspended list since last September for violating Major League Baseball's policy on domestic violence. He accepted a 40-game suspension and will be eligible to return to the Cubs on May 3, when they open a home series against the St. Louis Cardinals.
The 25-year-old Russell took part in spring training with the big club and remained in Arizona.
Neither team president Theo Epstein nor general manager Jed Hoyer was around Tuesday to talk to the media about Russell or several other issues, but it's possible one or both will go to Des Moines to observe Russell. The Iowa Cubs begin a nine-game homestand Wednesday night.
Among the questions the Cubs will have to deal with is how they use Russell upon his return.
Javier Baez, who played second base when Russell was starting, is playing shortstop and playing it well. Infielders David Bote and Daniel Descalso also have acquitted themselves well.
Manager Joe Maddon was asked if he had spoken to Russell about the fan reception he might receive.
"My conversation has been more about baseball, how he's feeling," Maddon said. "He's feeling really well. I was just taking to (mental-skills coordinator John Baker). John just saw him play in Arizona. He said he's hitting the ball extremely well. I know he's eager and anxious to get out there.
"One thing at a time. Just get him playing, see how that's going. After that, we'll make our call. I'm certain that we will discuss those kind of things with him prior to getting here. But for right now, it's been pretty much baseball-related conversations."
Lester possible for Thursday:
Left-handed ace Jon Lester did more on-field work Tuesday, and it remains possible he could come off the injured list and start Thursday's series finale against the Dodgers.
Lester injured his left hamstring running the bases during the April 8 home opener.
"Perhaps looking well right now," said Joe Maddon. "He's out doing some work. Once I hear some more about that, we'll be able to make a solid call. But he's trending in the right direction being able to pitch, but I want to make sure before I actually say that."
Baby for the Bote family:
The Cubs placed infielder David Bote on the paternity list and recalled left-handed reliever Randy Rosario from Iowa.
Bote hit a walk-off single Sunday to beat the Diamondbacks and immediately raced to the airport so he could fly to Colorado to be with his wife, Rachel, who gave birth to a son, the couple's third child.
A player may remain on the paternity list for up to three games, but Joe Maddon said he expects Bote back Wednesday.