Javier Báez is expanding his versatility in the Detroit Tigers lineup, recently taking on the center field position, a first in his 12-season MLB career. The Tigers have been challenged by injuries in the outfield, and Báez's ability to adapt has become crucial. Despite struggling at the plate since joining Detroit, batting just .221 over the past seasons, he has shown promise early in 2025 with a .333 average in 18 at-bats. Manager A.J. Hinch is focusing on maximizing Báez's athleticism after his offseason hip surgery, reaffirming the importance of player adaptability in a competitive season.

In addition to Báez, the Tigers' roster includes other utility players like Zach McKinstry and Andy Ibáñez, who are also ready to fill gaps as needed. This adaptability is not only vital for addressing injuries but also allows Hinch to creatively adjust his lineup against opposing pitchers. As the Tigers navigate these challenges, Báez's willingness to embrace a utility role could prove to be a key factor in the team's success.

The Detroit Tigers are poised to kick off the 2025 MLB season with an evening matchup against the Los Angeles Dodgers. With a roster featuring 26 players, manager A.J. Hinch aims to compete for the American League Central title, a feat the Tigers last accomplished from 2011 to 2014. The 2024 season saw the Tigers finish with an impressive 86-76 record, marking their first playoff appearance in a decade. Several players, including Dillon Dingler and Javier Báez, face critical questions heading into the season, with their performances potentially shaping the Tigers' chances in a competitive division.

As we enter 2025, Cubs fans find themselves in a reflective state, contemplating both the extraordinary highs of a World Series win and the lows associated with their infamous history. Highlighting 25 pivotal moments from the past 25 years, the narrative reveals a mixture of joy, heartbreak, and change that has defined Cubs baseball. From Javy Báez's clever play against the Pirates to Theo Epstein's transformative leadership, these episodes have left an indelible mark on the franchise's legacy.

Moments like the 2003 Steve Bartman incident, which haunted the team for years, contrast sharply with the triumphant 2016 World Series victory that ended a century-long drought. Each entry serves as a reminder of the team's journey, encapsulating the essence of what it means to be a Cubs fan—an amalgamation of hope, disappointment, and resilience.

The Detroit Tigers showcased a solid performance in their final Grapefruit League game, a 0-0 tie against the Atlanta Braves, drawing the largest crowd ever at Joker Marchant Stadium, with 10,468 fans in attendance. Jack Flaherty was impressive on the mound, throwing six innings without allowing a run, demonstrating his readiness for the season. Manager A.J. Hinch praised Flaherty's intensity and endurance during his outing. In a strategic move, Javier Báez made his debut in center field, although he had limited action during the game. Justyn-Henry Malloy continued his push for a roster spot with two hits, while Kenta Maeda was informed he will start the season in the bullpen but looked strong in his outing, striking out two batters. The Tigers are set to face the Philadelphia Phillies next.