Cubs' Baez to miss 4-8 weeks with fractured finger

Javier Baez's trying 2015 campaign was dealt another blow Sunday when the 22-year-old prospect fractured his left ring finger while attempting to steal a base for Triple-A Iowa - an injury that will sideline him for four-to-eight weeks.

Baez, the ninth overall pick in 2011, was taken to a local hospital after departing Sunday's series finale against Memphis, his 37th game with Iowa this season.

"That's a kick in the butt for the kid, man," Cubs manager Joe Maddon told MLB.com's Jacob Emert after Chicago's 6-3 win over Washington on Sunday. "He's been working so hard, he's been doing so well. I don't know the extent of it, but I heard about it, yes."

Though Baez was expected to earn a job with the Chicago Cubs this spring after appearing in 52 games with the club last season, his first in the majors, the young infielder was optioned to Iowa in late March after a disappointing spring training.

Shortly after his demotion, Baez suffered a far greater hardship when his 21-year-old sister, Noely, died in early April. Baez took a leave of absence to be with his family, eventually making his season debut with Iowa on April 30.

Heading into Sunday's game, Baez had hit .314/.387/.540 with eight home runs, six stolen bases, and a 25.8 percent strikeout rate through 36 games with Iowa.