RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 2 sourcesJavier Báez may be getting closer to rejoining the Detroit Tigers , but manager A.J. Hinch is not ready to rush the veteran back after nearly three months on the injured list.
Báez was scheduled to start in center field for Triple-A Toledo on Sunday after collecting three doubles in his previous rehab game. The Tigers have been without him since April 29, and he was transferred to the 60-day injured list on June 11.
Báez Making Progress With Mud Hens
Hinch expects Báez to need additional rehabilitation time, though another strong performance could alter Detroit’s plans.
According to Evan Woodbery of MLive , Hinch said he “anticipates Báez needing more time on rehab, but if he has another game like yesterday (three doubles), who knows?”
The Mud Hens are off Monday, creating a possible opportunity for Báez to visit the Tigers. Hinch joked that keeping the eager veteran away from Comerica Park might be the safer choice.
“I don’t know if he’s going to come in [to Detroit] tomorrow to check in, because if he comes in tomorrow, he’s going to be in my office wanting to play,” Hinch said. “So we may need to keep him under control.”
Detroit Needs to Make the Right Call
Báez’s three-double game was an encouraging sign, especially after such a long absence. Detroit still needs to see how his body responds to playing consecutive games and handling center field before activating him.
His return would give Hinch another experienced option during a crucial stretch of the season. It would also create an interesting roster decision for a Tigers team trying to stay alive in the playoff race.
Bottom Line
Javier Báez appears eager to return, and his bat is beginning to show signs of life in Toledo.
The Tigers should resist bringing him back based on one big game, but another strong showing could make the decision much more difficult. Báez is clearly getting close. Now Detroit must determine when he is truly ready.
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