In recent discussions surrounding player contracts, the Detroit Tigers’ deal with Javier Baez has been highlighted as a significant misstep. This multi-year contract, valued at $140 million over six years, was expected to rejuvenate the team’s performance, especially as they looked to fill the void left by Miguel Cabrera. However, Baez’s performance has led many to label this contract as one of the Tigers’ top blunders.
Javier Baez’s Career Overview
Javier Baez rose to prominence with the Chicago Cubs, where he played an integral role in breaking the franchise’s long-standing World Series drought. His standout seasons in 2018 and 2019 saw him achieve over six wins above replacement (bWAR), and he finished second in MVP voting in 2018.
Transition to the Detroit Tigers
After the Cubs began a rebuilding phase in 2021, Baez was traded to the New York Mets before entering free agency. In 2022, he signed with the Tigers, who were eager for a leader on the field. Unfortunately, his debut season with the Tigers was disappointing.
Performance Decline
- 2022 Season: Baez had a career-low 91 OPS+ and posted a .671 OPS with 2.4 bWAR.
- 2023 Season: He continued to struggle, finishing with a 63 OPS+ and only 0.8 bWAR.
- 2024 Season: Baez recorded a dismal -1.1 bWAR with a .516 OPS while only playing 80 games.
These declining statistics raised concerns for a team trying to compete for division titles. The Tigers found it increasingly difficult to justify his presence in the lineup, especially given his hefty salary of $25 million for the 2024 season.
Recent Improvements
Despite the rocky start, Baez showed signs of improvement in the most recent season. At 32, he achieved 12 home runs and raised his OPS+ to 87, contributing 1.9 bWAR. This marked his return as an All-Star, while also taking on additional responsibilities in center field — where he excelled defensively, earning five Outs Above Average, placing him in the 90th percentile.
Postseason Performance
Baez’s postseason statistics have also been noteworthy. He boasts a .346 average in playoff games, with nine hits out of 26 at-bats, a home run, and five RBIs.
Current Outlook
While Baez’s recent performance has alleviated some concerns, he remains a liability at the plate. His chase rate is problematic, ranking in the bottom one percent among players. As he enters the final years of his contract, valued at $24 million for the upcoming season, the Tigers will rely heavily on his defensive skills to offset his offensive shortcomings.
As of now, Baez’s contract may not seem as dire, but the long-term implications remain uncertain. The Tigers will need to monitor his development closely to turn this situation around and enhance their competitiveness in the league.
