Detroit Tigers shortstop Javier Báez is set to return from the injured list and will make his spring training debut this Friday. Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reports that the two-time All-Star has finished his rehab from his right hip surgery . He is set to be the designated hitter against the Toronto Blue Jays on Friday. The Tigers have been hit early with the injury bug, as multiple significant players have been sidelined with injuries, including Alex Cobb , Matt Vierling , and Parker Meadows . Considering the number of injuries, Báez’s return to the lineup is reassuring news for the Tigers, who are looking to make some noise in the American League.
It’s official: Here’s when #Tigers shortstop Javier Báez will make 2025 spring training debut https://t.co/DUjixbLMbF
— Evan Petzold (@EvanPetzold) February 27, 2025
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Tigers’ Two-Time All-Star Javier Báez Set to Return From IL
Báez has been absent from the Tigers lineup since Aug. 22, 2024. This Friday will be his first game since then, and manager A.J. Hinch discussed how they will transition him into the lineup. “First things first, let’s get him in the box, and get him back to playing baseball and not rehabbing, and then we’ll see where he’s at,” Hinch said Thursday. He also mentioned that Báez will again be the designated hitter in Saturday’s game against the Philadelphia Phillies. The goal is for him to return to shortstop on Monday against the Blue Jays. Báez underwent season-ending arthroscopic hip surgery in August of last season. The 32-year-old was also dealing with lumbar spine inflammation that was linked to his hip injury. It’s been unfortunate for the 2020 National League Gold Glove winner, who has been dealing with lingering back issues.
How Báez’s Return Benefits the Tigers
Despite the injury history in his career, Báez’s return is significant for the Tigers. In 2021, he signed a six-year deal with the Tigers. But Báez established his dominant presence during his tenure with the Chicago Cubs from 2014 to 2020. In addition, he is highly known for his skillful playing style in the infield, which he makes look effortless.
Nicknamed ”El Mago,” (The Magician), Báez earned the moniker for several reasons. These include his impressive defense on the field, as well as his strong base running and making plays beyond the spectrum of other everyday players. Báez also earned the Silver Slugger Award in 2018. The Puerto Rico native is also known for his postseason success. He was named the co-MVP in the 2016 NLCS. According to Stat Muse , he has recorded 27 hits, gone yard five times, and had 14 RBI in his career in the postseason. Báez has also participated in the World Baseball Classic, representing Puerto Rico in 2017 and 2023. But 2017 was his successful campaign, where he was the tournament’s stolen base leader.
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