Javier Baez, an infielder for the Detroit Tigers, had been one of the worst players in Major League Baseball in recent seasons, and it appeared that his career was on the verge of collapse.
Since signing a six-year, $140 million contract with the Tigers in 2022, Baez has been among the league’s worst players. His demeanor changed, he was ineffective defensively, and his offense suffered greatly. Baez appeared disinterested in baseball and struck out frequently, chasing sliders in the lefty batter’s box.
Going into this season, he had an OPS of just.593 since signing with Detroit, and all indications were that the Tigers would phase Baez out of the lineup despite the massive contract.
However, since moving him to center field, the defense has performed above average, with four outs above average (94th percentile), and he is regaining confidence at the plate. In fact, Baez is currently hitting.291 with an OPS of.811. He has six home runs and 28 RBI in 38 games and has been on fire over the last few weeks.
One possible explanation for El Mago’s resurgence is the lack of pressure on him to be the primary contributor. The Tigers have benefited from strong pitching as well as outstanding offensive performances from Spencer Torkelson, Kerry Carpenter, Gleyber Torres, and Riley Greene.
During Baez’s prime, the Chicago Cubs had other superstars to help carry the load. When he signed with Detroit, he was expected to be the primary contributor to a young and inexperienced Tigers team, and his performance suffered.
With much of the pressure off his shoulders to be the Most Valuable Player candidate he once was, he can focus on regaining his form without feeling rushed.
The Tigers lead the American League Central by five games and are 31-16.
