Javy Báez injury gives Tigers perfect opportunity to shut him down for 2024 season

Another day, another trip to the injured list for Javy Báez.

The Detroit Tigers placed Báez on the 10-day IL with lumbar spine and hip inflammation before Friday's series opener against the Chicago White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field. The severity of the injury and the recovery time have yet to be determined.

"The initial test indicated he needs to go on the injured list," Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said (via the Associated Press). "He's going to go through another round of tests, more tomorrow before we know the extent, how long."

Regardless of the test results, it might not be a bad idea for the Tigers to consider shutting Báez down for the rest of the season. The 31-year-old has been on the IL twice this season, both times involving issues with his back. He has has also struggled mightily at the plate this year, hitting .184 with six home runs, 12 walks and 69 strikeouts across 80 games. He is making $25 million in his third season with the Tigers.

Javy Báez injury gives Tigers perfect opportunity to shut him down during awful 2024 season

In a corresponding move, the Tigers recalled infielder Ryan Kreidler from Triple-A Toledo. Kreidler has played in 21 games with Detroit this season, notching six hits in 44 at-bats. He rejoins a Tigers team brimming with young talent and still playing exciting baseball despite being out of the playoff race (alongside an injury-depleted rotation consisting of just two starters). Kreidler will likely get occasional starts at shortstop against left-handed pitchers, along with some appearances at third base and second base when regular starters need rest.

Meanwhile, Trey Sweeney will continue to start at shortstop for the Tigers against right-handed pitchers, giving him the majority of the reps at the position. Sweeney made his MLB debut earlier this month and has two hits and two runs scored in four games with Detroit. He was acquired from the Los Angeles Dodgers at the deadline in the Jack Flaherty trade, and his call-up on Aug. 15 indicated that Báez's days as the Tigers' starting shortstop could be numbered.

Now, it feels all but certain that they are, especially if Sweeney can gain some steam during the final month of the season.

More Tigers content from Motor City Bengals