Detroit Tigers’ shortstop Javier Báez will undergo season-ending surgery on his right hip, marking a premature end to his 2023 campaign. Báez has been out of action since August 22, when the team initially diagnosed him with lumbar spine and hip inflammation. The following day, he was placed on the injured list.
A central figure in the Tigers' lineup, Báez is in the third year of his six-year, $120 million contract. Despite his formidable skill set, this season has been a challenging one for the veteran shortstop. Báez's slash line for the year stands at a disappointing .184/.221/.294, with only six home runs over 80 games. Over his three seasons with Detroit, the numbers have been underwhelming overall, with a cumulative slash line of .221/.262/.347.
“Somewhat related, at least the initial diagnosis is that they’re related,” said Tigers manager A.J. Hinch, discussing the link between Báez’s spine and hip issues. “I feel for him. We've talked about it time and time again, and it just hasn't been good for him.”
The Tigers are left to navigate the remainder of the season without one of their cornerstone players. However, the emergence of prospects like Trey Sweeney offers some hope. Sweeney made his Major League debut on August 16, tallying a .211 batting average with one home run in six games so far. His performance in Triple-A before being called up was more promising, with a .267/.345/.450 slash line and 15 home runs in 107 games.
In Báez’s absence, the Tigers' infield configuration is in flux. Promising talents such as Colt Keith and Jace Jung may be crucial in filling the void left by Báez. These young players have the potential to fortify the Tigers' roster, which currently holds a 65-66 record. Yet, that record reflects broader struggles, considering Detroit has not seen a winning season in eight years. The last time they tasted postseason action was in 2014.
While the team and its fans will surely miss Báez’s presence on the field, his recovery and return to peak form are paramount. The Tigers have a significant investment in Báez, with three years and $73 million remaining on his contract. This surgery is a calculated step toward ensuring his long-term health and productivity.
“We’ve talked about it time and time again,” Hinch reiterated, underscoring the medical team's ongoing efforts to address Báez’s condition. “It just hasn't been good for him.” The hope now is that the surgery will provide the relief and correction needed for Báez to return stronger next season.
As Detroit inches closer to the end of another rebuild season, the development of their young prospects and the health of their veterans will be key in aiming for a turnaround. For now, the Tigers must adapt and push forward, focusing on building a competitive team that can end the franchise’s prolonged postseason drought.