Chicago Cubs prospect Javier Baez is taking a bereavement leave of absence from Triple-A Iowa because of a death in his family, the organization confirmed on Thursday.

Noely Baez, Javier's sister, died at the age of 21. She was born with spina bifida, and Javier helped out with her care.

Iowa starts its season Thursday night in Memphis. It's not known when Baez will return to the team. He was the Cubs' No. 1 pick in 2011.