Javy Báez Resurfaces: The Detroit Magician Revives After Surgery and Changes

The Renaissance of “El Mago”: Javier Báez and His Resurgence in Detroit

The return of Javier Báez to Wrigley Field last August evoked an emotional reunion. Chicago, where the player lived his best moments, conquering a World Series, a Silver Slugger, and two All-Star selections, eagerly awaited his visit. Known as “El Mago” (The Magician) for his spectacular play, Báez, despite his departure in 2021 and the six-year, $140 million contract with the Detroit Tigers, generated great anticipation. However, his performance did not meet expectations. Amidst ovations, Báez struck out four times and his last appearance on the field was in 2024. A hip problem had diminished his athletic ability, affecting his game.

“Honestly, I didn’t make excuses when I struggled for three years,” Báez said. “I was playing through pain. I didn’t want to come out of the lineup. I had good energy all the time. It was frustrating, but I’m the same every day. My teammates know it.”

Javier Báez

The conversation with his manager, A.J. Hinch, came a week before the series in Chicago, but Báez wanted to play at Wrigley Field before the end of the season. His numbers reflected his limitations, with a declining OPS during his three years in Detroit. Báez’s struggles against curveballs became evident. His at-bats often ended with a strikeout. The situation worsened as he stopped hitting fastballs, and the Tigers knew something had to be done. Báez underwent hip surgery and began a rehabilitation process, paying attention to his diet. Meanwhile, the Tigers were evolving, and Báez’s future on the team was uncertain. Detroit achieved an improbable playoff qualification and won a series against the Astros, with young talents leading the way. Hinch waited until spring training to define Báez’s role, proposing versatility on the field. Báez, with experience in various positions, accepted the challenge. The change of position in center field arose when Parker Meadows was injured. Báez, with enthusiasm, took on the new role.

After accepting his new role, Báez had to prove he could hit enough to stay in the lineup. His answer was the same: “trying to stay away from that slider,” he said with a head movement. The Detroit team wasn’t looking for him to change his style against curveballs and sliders, but rather to reconnect with the pitches he could hit. Hinch simplified his game plan, and the results were immediate. In April, Báez batted .297, with an on-base percentage of .337. His power returned in May. The highlight came on May 13, with a three-run homer in the sixth and a home run in extra innings. Seven months later, Báez was at the center of the celebration. Despite the difficulties, he remained a respected player in the locker room. Báez is once again a key player on a team with playoff aspirations. “And I’m hitting the slider better,” Báez said with a smile.