Detroit Tigers shortstop Javier Báez will undergo season-ending surgery on his right hip, a prognosis that effectively ends his 2023 campaign. The surgery is a significant turn of events for the Tigers, who have been without Báez since August 22. His absence was initially attributed to lumbar spine and hip inflammation, a diagnosis provided by the team's management.
Báez was officially placed on the injured list on August 23, and despite hopes of a return, the decision for surgery ultimately became unavoidable. "Somewhat related, at least the initial diagnosis is that they're related," Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said, indicating the initial inflammation might have led to the surgical outcome.
The shortstop is currently in the third season of a lucrative six-year, $120 million contract. The loss of Báez is a blow to the Tigers, although his performance this season has been a topic of concern. His slash line for the season reads .184/.221/.294, with only six home runs over 80 games. Accumulating a .221/.262/.347 slash line over his three-season tenure with Detroit, Báez has struggled to find consistent form since signing with the Tigers.
"I feel for him. We've talked about it time and time again, and it just hasn't been good for him," Hinch expressed, emphasizing the collective disappointment within the organization regarding Báez’s struggles and subsequent surgery.
As the Tigers navigate Báez’s prolonged absence, the infield dynamics are beginning to shift. Prospect Trey Sweeney made his Major League debut on August 16, showing promise despite his limited experience. In six games, Sweeney has recorded a .211 batting average with one home run. His performance in Triple-A was more robust, boasting a .267/.345/.450 slash line with 15 home runs across 107 games.
Other infield prospects are also impacting the Tigers' future configurations, with Colt Keith and Jace Jung being central to these changes. Manager Hinch and the Tigers' management are likely to explore various options to fill the gap left by Báez, both in the short term and beyond.
The Tigers currently hold a 65-66 record, marking another season of challenges for a franchise that has not experienced a winning season in eight years. The postseason drought extends back to 2014, adding layers of frustration for fans and the organization alike. Despite these setbacks, the focus now shifts towards leveraging emerging talents and planning strategically for the upcoming seasons, where three years and $73 million remain on Báez's contract.