Tigers Facing Javier Baez Decision After Removal From Lineup

The Detroit Tigers have taken command of the AL Central after a sluggish start to the second half of the season, currently owning a 74–53 record, the American League’s best.

Although the team overall has bounced back nicely, Javier Baez has struggled mightily since the All-Star break, posting a .235 batting average, .577 OPS, and just one home run over his last 25 games.

Baez was selected to represent Detroit at the All-Star Game, marking the third selection of his career and first for the Tigers after a resurgent first half of the year.

The 32-year-old had finally begun to look like the player Detroit anticipated he would be when they signed him to a six-year, $140 million contract ahead of the 2022 season.

A.J. Hinch Makes Javier Baez Move

Unfortunately, Baez has yet to find that first-half form again, and with Detroit entering a critical stage of the season, his playing time has begun to diminish.

Ahead of Tuesday’s game against the Houston Astros, manager A.J. Hinch decided to bench Baez and slotted in Wenceel Perez to take over his position in center field.

"Tarik Tuesday"

Tarik Tuesday ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/geMZmzTRCu

— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) August 19, 2025

Tigers Facing Tough Javier Baez Decision

The Tigers are facing a decision on Baez’s role with the team moving forward. The switch-hitting Perez has been a pleasant surprise in his second season with the Tigers, posting a .266 batting average and .815 OPS throughout 66 games, and clearly looks to be the better center field option.

If Baez were to transition back to the infield, he’d be battling with Gleyber Torres along with Trey Sweeney and Zack McKinstry for playing time. Although Sweeney has struggled with the bat as well, Torres and McKinstry haven’t—leaving Baez as the odd man out if he continues to struggle.

Baez will look to take advantage of the limited opportunities he may receive moving forward; otherwise, he’s in danger of being left off the postseason roster

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.