Tigers News: Javier Baez To Miss Remainder Of Season

Detroit Tigers shortstop Javier Báez is set to undergo season-ending right hip surgery. The procedure, which is expected to be arthroscopic in nature, comes following Báez's struggles throughout the 2024 season, where he managed a dismal batting average of .184 with just six home runs over 80 games.

Báez, 31, will have his operation next week, although the exact date and details regarding the surgeon have yet to be finalized. Tigers’ manager A.J. Hinch expressed concern and hope regarding Báez's situation via the Detroit Free Press : "We've got to get him right. It'll be a long process, but hopefully, it'll be a successful one." This sentiment underscores the team's focus on the player's health and future performance.

The need for surgery follows Báez being placed on the 10-day injured list due to lumbar spine and hip inflammation. Just before the Chicago White Sox game on Monday, the Tigers moved Báez to the 60-day injured list to create space on the roster for right-hander Ty Madden, who recently made his MLB debut. This marked a swift transition that highlights the urgency of Báez's health concerns.

Hinch commented on the broader implications of Báez's health: "Getting him healthy is the No. 1 priority, for his own health, and obviously, to get the best player out of him, we need him healthy." This underlines the collective hope of the Tigers staff and fans alike that Báez can return to form post-recovery.

Related: Tigers News: Mason Englert Returns From Injured List

The Tigers invested heavily in Báez with the expectation that he would be a cornerstone of their offense. His ongoing struggles have raised concerns, particularly with him still owed $73 million on his contract through the 2027 season. As the Tigers navigate their season without Báez, the organization will be keenly focused on his recovery and eventual return to peak performance.