As the Detroit Tigers gear up for a season brimming with hope and potential, fans are eager to witness more than just flashes of brilliance akin to the Roar of ’24. The Tigers are aiming for sustained excellence this year, something that has eluded them when their stars haven’t consistently shone. A prime example of this inconsistency is shortstop Javier Baez, whose time with the Tigers has been rocky since signing a six-year, $140 million deal back in 2022.

Baez’s 2024 season was marred by injuries and struggles at the plate, culminating in a disappointing .184/.221/.294 slash line across 80 games. For a player once regarded as an elite defender, his defensive slip at such a pivotal position underscored a tough year. However, entering the new season reportedly healthy and with a fresh approach to his game, Baez is set for a do-over, hoping to make the Tigers’ continued investment in him worthwhile.

Spring training has offered a glimpse of the Baez fans hope to see – one who has slashed .286/.375/.643 with an impressive OPS of 1.018 in just 14 at-bats so far. The highlight?

A towering home run surpassing 400 feet, showcasing the power he’s capable of. While expectations of Baez returning to his All-Star form from his Chicago Cubs days might be a stretch, a transformation back into a reliable everyday player is within reach.

If he can carve out a season where he belts around 20 home runs with an OPS nearing .700, it’d be a victory for both him and the Tigers faithful.

It’s clear that the financial commitment to Baez will continue over the next few years, and though the contract might not sit right in hindsight, there’s still a chance to extract value from it. The Tigers are committed to making the best of the situation, striving to turn Baez’s journey into a story of redemption rather than regret.

Should Baez flourish in 2025, he could be a catalyst for Detroit, potentially elevating the underdogs into the realm of true contenders. The road won’t be easy, but a resurgent season from Baez could illuminate a path towards sustained success for the Tigers.