Detroit Tigers Place Javier Báez on Injured List Due to Hip and Back Issues

CHICAGO (AP) — The Detroit Tigers have announced that shortstop Javier Báez has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to inflammation in his right hip and lumbar spine. Manager A.J. Hinch indicated that further tests will be conducted to assess the severity of Báez's condition. The injury comes shortly after Báez's return to Wrigley Field, where he was a key player for the Chicago Cubs during their historic 2016 World Series victory. Báez, who was instrumental in the Cubs' success, notably hitting .375 in the NLDS and earning co-MVP honors in the NLCS, has faced challenges since joining the Tigers on a $140 million, six-year contract in December 2021. This season, he has struggled at the plate, posting a batting average of .184 with six home runs and 37 RBIs over 80 games. Hinch revealed that Báez had expressed concerns about ongoing hip and back issues, prompting the team to seek medical evaluation. In light of Báez's injury, the Tigers have recalled infielder Ryan Kreidler from Triple-A Toledo. Kreidler has appeared in 21 games for the Tigers this season, recording six hits in 44 at-bats. The team will monitor Báez's condition closely as they await the results of additional tests to determine the next steps for the player and the impact on the team's lineup.