Love Letters From Pronk is an ongoing series where Pronk shares his love for somebody connected to the Cubs. Sometimes funny, sometimes weird, Pronk likes to make 100% sure people know that they are loved, and best expresses that through gushing letters. Today's pick: Javy Baez
Dear Javy,
You slid smoothly into our hearts. While we could fill highlight reels with your athletic hustle plays, today I want to share the impact you've had on the Cubs fanbase. You are constantly entertaining, and it's given us strong reason to watch the team, even if they aren't winning. It's very rare that someone gets absolutely everything out of their physical gifts. It's tough to get every last drop of juice out of an orange, but when it comes to your game, you are fully squeezed. You are all in at all times, unlike any Chicago Cub I've ever seen.
But that just starts to scratch the surface.
What makes Javy Baez baseball so exciting? In your style of play, there are lots of little subtleties that add up to making you a dynamic player. When we see a fantastic slide, it's a feat of athleticism. But what goes into that is speed, body control, mental awareness, focus, strength, and ability. All of these little things add up into a dynamic play. Similarly, your awareness of fans makes a deeper impact. Deeper than what appears on the surface.
There was the tragic story, of Noely Baez, gone too soon. I'm glad that you've not only become a regular major leaguer, fulfilling her dream, but also a bonafide all star. I'm sure she's looking down and proud of the annual MVP candidate you are. But that is only half the story. Noely's memory lives on, through your actions:
You have a consistent impact on the fans. You are a great and fun ambassador for the game. Even now in these baseball free COVID times, you organized meals for kids in Puerto Rico. Way to be outstanding. You gain new fans each and every day, from both your on field and off the field doings. You rock.
XOXO,
Pronk
Alright, bonus features. Here's an hour of Javy Baez highlights. You can't talk about Javy Baez without his insane physical feats. But you also can't talk about Javy Baez to do him justice. Seeing is believing.