Javier Baez hip surgery

Detroit Tigers shortstop Javier Báez will undergo season-ending arthroscopic surgery on his right hip, as confirmed by manager A.J. Hinch. Báez has been plagued by hip and back issues, leading to a disappointing season where he recorded a career-low .516 OPS over 80 games. This injury has prompted the Tigers to move Báez from the 10-day to the 60-day injured list, allowing rookie Trey Sweeney to take over as the starting shortstop. Báez, 31, has three years and $73 million remaining on his contract, raising questions about his future with the team. Despite his struggles, Báez's defensive skills have kept him valuable, but with declining performance, his position is increasingly at risk. The Tigers will look to evaluate their infield options moving forward, especially with young players like Sweeney and others stepping into key roles.