Javier Baez’s benching during a game against the Toronto Blue Jays has contributed to the Detroit Tigers’ improved play. The Tigers’ president, Scott Harris, praised Baez for his positive response to being removed from the game. Baez, who is in the second season of a six-year $140 million contract, was removed after losing track of how many outs there were and running into a double play. Since then, Baez has hit his first three home runs of the season and has raised his average to .256.
Manager’s Tough Decision
Harris commended the Tigers’ manager, A.J. Hinch, for making a tough decision and messaging it well. Harris believes the incident was a turning point for the team. The Tigers have gone 14-11 in the 25 games since the incident after starting the season 3-8. Harris credited Hinch for getting players ready to come through in high-leverage moments.
Baez’s Leadership
Harris believes that Baez is one of the leaders on the team and sets the tone for the entire team. Baez’s focus on pitches he can drive has set the tone for the rest of the hitters. The Tigers have been playing a very aggressive brand of baseball, pounding the zone and trying to get into better counts on both sides of the ball.
Tigers’ Standings
The Tigers are currently in second place in the American League Central standings, 2½ games behind the first-place Minnesota Twins. Baez hit .238 with 17 home runs and 67 RBIs in 144 games for the Tigers last season, his first with the franchise. After the game against the Blue Jays, Baez said he respected Hinch’s decision and acknowledged that he needed to show respect for the game of baseball.
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