Javier Baez remains the highest-paid player on the Tigers, with a six-year, $140 million contract that is now viewed as one of the worst in recent baseball history. Despite earning $25 million this year, his performance has been disappointing, posting a slash line of .221/.262/.347 with only 32 home runs and 163 RBI since joining the team. This lack of production has raised concerns about the value of his contract, but the Tigers are still making efforts to improve the team without over-investing, allowing opportunities for their young players.

Javier Baez is the only significant contract on the Tigers' payroll beyond the 2025 season, indicating the team's focus on maintaining roster flexibility as they integrate their prospects into the major leagues.

Javier Baez is currently positioned as the shortstop for the Tigers, but the team is considering upgrading that position this offseason, indicating potential competition for his role.

Javier Baez's tenure with the Tigers has been marred by underperformance and injury issues, including a significant hip surgery that sidelined him for much of the 2024 season. His contract, worth over $20 million annually through 2027, has become one of the worst in baseball due to his lack of production, with a .221 batting average and .610 OPS in three seasons. Despite these challenges, manager A.J. Hinch remains optimistic about Baez's rehab progress and potential contributions in 2025, though the team's ability to upgrade at shortstop is complicated by his contract situation.

Javier Báez was brought in by the Tigers on a six-year, $140 million contract with the hope that he would be a cornerstone player. However, he has drastically underperformed, hitting just .221/.262/.347 over three years, which has led to him being considered one of the worst contracts in the league. His production fell sharply in 2024, where he batted .184 before undergoing season-ending hip surgery. With $73 million still owed to him, the Tigers are now looking at a platoon situation with Trey Sweeney, who has shown potential as a viable alternative at shortstop. Anything the team gets from Báez moving forward is seen as a bonus given his recent struggles.