Detroit Tigers shortstop Javier Báez will not be finishing the season on the field, as he is set to undergo surgery on his right hip. This decision arrives after Báez has been out of action since August 22, when he was initially placed on the injured list due to what the team described as lumbar spine and hip inflammation. The Tigers announced his placement on the injured list on August 23.
Báez, who is currently in the third season of a six-year, $120 million contract, has had a tough run this year with a slash line of .184/.221/.294 and six home runs in 80 games. His overall performance over three seasons with Detroit has also been underwhelming, recording a .221/.262/.347 slash line.
Manager A.J. Hinch Addresses the Situation
Tigers manager A.J. Hinch commented on Báez's injuries, stating, "Somewhat related, at least the initial diagnosis is that they’re related." The manager expressed empathy for the struggling player, saying, "I feel for him. We’ve talked about it time and time again, and it just hasn’t been good for him."
The timing of Báez’s absence coincides with the debut of Trey Sweeney on August 16, who has taken on some of the workload in the infield. Sweeney's early performance in the Major Leagues includes a .211 batting average with one home run in six games. His previous Triple-A stats were more promising, with a .267/.345/.450 slash line and 15 home runs in 107 games.
Opportunities for Emerging Talent
With Báez out, the Tigers' infield configuration is also being shaped by up-and-coming players Colt Keith and Jace Jung. This could be an opportunity for these young athletes to step up and prove themselves as reliable contributors to the team’s future success.
The Detroit Tigers' current record stands at 65-66. They have not enjoyed a winning season in the past eight years and have not reached the postseason since 2014. The organization aims to turn things around and achieve better results in the coming seasons.
As for Báez, three years and $73 million remain on his contract. His recovery and future performance will be closely monitored by fans and team management alike. The hope is that the surgery will address his persistent issues and allow him to return stronger next season.
In the meantime, A.J. Hinch and the Tigers will need to rally the team and focus on development to break their nearly decade-long postseason drought. The progress of players like Sweeney, Keith, and Jung will be crucial as the Tigers look to rebuild and compete at a higher level.