Detroit Tigers infielder Javy Baez had a promising start to the season, showcasing solid performance and even transitioning to the outfield. Before the All-Star break, he recorded a 2.2 bWAR, which earned him a spot as an All-Star for the first time since 2019. However, as the second half of the season unfolded, both Baez and the Tigers faced significant challenges, leading to noticeable declines in performance and team standings.
In recent months, Baez has struggled at the plate, contributing to the Tigers’ inability to maintain their lead in the AL Central. The team’s fortunes have turned, forcing them to fight harder for victories, and Baez’s slump has not gone unnoticed. While the Tigers as a whole share responsibility for their current challenges, Baez’s decline has become a focal point for criticism.
Recently, Jayson Stark of The Athletic highlighted this regression by naming Baez as the American League’s “Least Valuable Player.” Stark’s assessment illustrates the drastic shift from Baez’s earlier contributions to a player who now struggles to make an impact. His last home run was on August 2, and he hasn’t driven in a run since August 15, further supporting Stark’s point about Baez’s difficulties at the plate.
Baez is not alone in this unfortunate categorization, as Stark noted other underperforming players, including Tyler O’Neill from the Baltimore Orioles and Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox. For the National League, candidates included Marcell Ozuna, Ozzie Albies, and Michael Harris II, indicating a broader trend of disappointments across the league.
Despite these struggles, there remains hope for Baez to rebound. As the season draws to a close, the potential for improvement is still present, and the challenges faced this year could serve as a learning experience for both him and the Tigers moving forward. With dedication and hard work, Baez can look to reclaim his form and contribute positively to the team’s future efforts.