This isn't like last September.
The Cubs didn't call up Javier Baez just to pencil him in at second base and the two-hole in the order every single game.
As manager Joe Maddon has said on several occassions - the time for development is over. The Cubs are in a pennant race and they need wins at just about any cost.
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Of course, Maddon also understands it can be a difficult adjustment for a guy like Baez, who is used to playing every day. That empathy part of what makes Maddon so popular with his players.
"It's a little bit different for him, there's no question," Maddon said. "But this is a different moment for a lot of our guys. It's September; we have a really solid chance for playoffs. It's not about anybody right now - it's about the Cubs. That's what guys have to get used to right now.
"Moving forward, he's going to be an everyday player. There's no question. As we move this thing to next year and the year after, you'll see him play on a consistent basis.
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"But for right now, he has to figure out how to be ready sporadically sometimes, even in-game."
Baez was in the lineup Friday, hitting sixth and playing second base. It was his second start in three games since being recalled from Triple-A Iowa when rosters expanded Tuesday.
Maddon said he just liked the matchup with Baez against Diamondbacks rookie Zack Godley and Baez rewarded his manager's faith with three hits - including a home run - and a bases-loaded walk.
The Cubs also got Tommy La Stella back from injury recently and Starlin Castro is coming off a month in which he appeared to turn a corner at the plate, hitting .296 with a .752 OPS in August.
That means Maddon has three solid options at second base for the season's final four weeks. He wants to play La Stella - a left-handed hitter - against right-handed starters and Castro against some lefties.
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But Maddon also raved about Baez's glovework in the infield and said he's just trying to play the best matchups on a daily basis with the lineup.
"Right now, I'm really into defense a lot," Maddon said. "I feel really good about his defense. You might see him at third base, too."
Baez played nine games at third base at Triple-A Iowa this season and Maddon admitted his versatility can mean pushing Kris Bryant to the outfield - especially with Kyle Schwarber out injured - and allowing La Stella and Castro more time at second base.
Baez also said Tuesday he brought his outfield glove to Chicago - "just in case" - but it doesn't appear as if the Cubs have any intention of playing him there this season.
Maddon didn't declare his Saturday lineup yet, but after Friday's game, he conceded to the fact that both Baez and Castro would probably be in against Arizona lefty Robbie Ray for the second game of the series, which could mean Baez at third base.