The Detroit Tigers will be without Javier Báez for the foreseeable future. The 33-year-old landed on the 10-day injured list with a right ankle sprain.
The injury occurred during a game when Báez fell backward and landed on his right leg. He was trying to avoid a tag at first base.
Báez’s Injury and Recovery
Manager A.J. Hinch described it as a “significant ankle sprain.” Báez said he received treatment and could put pressure on his ankle, noting it felt better after treatment.
Báez isn’t eligible to return to the Tigers until May 9. Hinch said that if he is back by then, it would be great, but it could take longer because of swelling and soreness.
Replacement at Shortstop
Kevin McGonigle will receive all of the playing time at shortstop in Báez’s absence. This will be the case, at least until Zach McKinstry returns from left hip/abdominal inflammation.
McKinstry is expected to begin a rehab assignment in the coming days. He should be back within the next seven days, potentially taking Jung’s spot.
Hinch said they won’t rush McKinstry’s return and need to ensure a full recovery.
Other Team Adjustments
For now, Hao-Yu Lee is the Tigers’ backup shortstop. He hasn’t played shortstop since 2023 at the High-A level in the minor leagues.
Hinch acknowledged it is “not an ideal situation right now.” He added that Lee is probably best positioned to field ground balls and throw it across the field if needed, but Kevin will play shortstop until further notice.
- Báez is hitting .256 with two home runs.
- He has two walks and 16 strikeouts over 24 games.
- He has a .678 OPS.
Báez has spent time at shortstop, center field and second base. He has played 129⅓ innings at shortstop, 53 innings in center field and 15⅔ innings at second base.
Báez’s Contract
Báez is in the next-to-last season of a six-year, $140 million contract. He signed with the Tigers in December 2021.
Báez is owed $24 million in both 2026 and 2027.
Hinch reiterated that it is a “pretty big ankle sprain.”