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Javier Baez news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Javier Baez made his first career start in left field for the Tigers on Aug 13, 2026. The Gold Glove shortstop's versatility boosts Detroit's playoff push.
Background
Javier Baez, a Gold Glove shortstop, has been used in a utility role by the Tigers during their playoff chase. On August 13, 2026, he made his first career start in left field, a position he had played only two innings in his career. Manager AJ Hinch expressed confidence in Baez's adaptability, saying 'Javier is a baseball player.'
How it unfolded
- Aug 9, 2026Baez was out of the lineup against the Giants, with Kevin McGonigle covering shortstop.
- Aug 12, 2026Baez signed with Cangrejeros de Santurce to play winter ball in Puerto Rico.
- Aug 12, 2026Baez advanced to third and scored on an error, extending the Tigers' lead to 5-2.
- Aug 13, 2026Baez made his first career start in left field in the series finale against the Guardians.
- Aug 14, 2026Baez was not in the starting lineup for Friday's critical divisional matchup against the White Sox.
- Aug 15, 2026The Tigers announced lineup news involving Baez during the White Sox series.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Manager AJ Hinch said, 'Javier is a baseball player. I don’t worry about that part.'