Javy Báez bats lefty versus the position player pitching, a breakdown

With the Chicago Cubs comfortably ahead, the Cincinnati Reds turn to position player Kyle Farmer to pitch the final inning. Javy Báez of the Cubs steps up to the plate and as the camera pans, a Cubs fan in the stands briefly flashes the camera. Farmer's first pitch to Báez is a bit wild, but Báez manages to foul it off. On the next pitch, Báez lines a base hit into left field. The Reds then send up Anthony Rizzo as a pinch-hitter and he steps up to the plate with a unique "Happy Gilmore" batting stance. Báez then comes up again, this time batting left-handed, which is an unusual move for the right-handed slugger. Farmer delivers the pitch and Báez swings hard, popping the ball up to center field. Cincinnati's Starlin Castro races in and drops to one knee in an effort to make the catch, earning cheers from the crowd for his hustle. Báez's at-bat as a left-handed hitter proves unsuccessful, but the Cubs fans in attendance appreciate his willingness to try something unconventional. The game has already been decided, with the Cubs holding a comfortable lead. This mid-game pitching appearance by Farmer, a position player, is a rare sight, as teams will often turn to position players to eat up innings in blowout games rather than burn through their bullpen. While the on-field action may not carry major stakes, the unusual circumstances and Báez's creative approach provide entertainment for the fans watching.