Misryoum reports the Tigers placed Javier Báez on the 10-day IL with a significant right ankle sprain, with Jace Jung recalled.
Javier Báez is headed for an extended absence after the Tigers confirmed a significant right ankle sprain, forcing Detroit to reshuffle its infield plans.
Misryoum reports that the 33-year-old shortstop/center fielder landed on the 10-day injured list on Wednesday with the injury. which occurred before the second game of a three-game set against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park.. Tigers manager A.J.. Hinch described it as a serious sprain and said the team cannot yet pinpoint a clear return date.
That uncertainty is the key issue for Detroit right now: ankle sprains can vary widely in recovery, so the Tigers’ next steps depend on how swelling and soreness evolve.
The injury itself happened in the fifth inning of Tuesday’s 5-2 loss when Báez fell backward and landed on his right leg while trying to avoid a tag at first base.. After the game. he left with a boot on his right foot. and he later indicated his condition improved with treatment. including the ability to put pressure on the ankle.
Báez is not eligible to return until May 9, but Hinch suggested the timeline could stretch if symptoms linger. In the meantime, the Tigers will rely on their internal depth at shortstop, with Kevin McGonigle expected to see the bulk of the reps.
For teams, the challenge is balancing immediate roster needs with long-term health, especially when a player’s ankle is involved in cutting, pivoting, and throwing.
With Zach McKinstry also dealing with left hip/abdominal inflammation. his return is tied to a rehab plan rather than a quick decision.. Misryoum reports that McKinstry is expected to begin a rehab assignment soon. which could place him on track to come back within roughly a week. though Detroit said it will not rush his progression.
Until then, Hao-Yu Lee is positioned as the backup option at shortstop if more coverage is needed. Misryoum notes Hinch emphasized flexibility in the fielding plan, making it possible to keep the defense moving even with multiple injury questions at once.
At the same time. Báez’s absence arrives alongside another roster move: the Tigers also placed Casey Mize on the injured list and recalled Enmanuel De Jesus.. That wider injury picture increases the pressure on Detroit’s next stretch. because lineup stability matters more when the team is forced to plug gaps quickly.