The Detroit Tigers beat the Cleveland Guardians 4-3 in the third game of their four-game weekend set, with Javier Baez’s latest home run being the deciding factor. They were carried along throughout the game by the right arm of Matt Manning and the bat of Kerry Carpenter, which paved the way for Baez’s blast.
Javier Baez ‘slowing things down’ in return from the bereavement list
After homering in the top of the seventh, which ended up being the game-winning run, Baez caught up with Johnny Kane and spoke about his approach and time with his family this past week.
…seeing videos and stuff and making adjustments with my hands, I’m seeing the ball pretty good these last two days. I’m seeing the ball really good.
Javier Baez
Javier Baez’s latest home run is a good sign
If Javy really is seeing the ball better, that’s a good thing for the Tigers and their shortstop. It’s been an abysmal season at the plate, which has led to some not-so-friendly viral videos of Baez. But, since his return from the bereavement list, he’s 3-8, with a home run, stolen base, and zero strikeouts. Baez’s latest home run was the game-winner for the Tigers against the Guardians. But what’s more, it was a blast that went to right-center field. For all of Javy’s strikeout issues this season, staying on the ball and driving it that way is going to serve him well.

Key Moments on the Horizon for Tigers
The Tigers are looking to wrap up their longest road trip of the season with a win tomorrow against the Guardians, which would give them a winning record for the trip at 5-4. They still sit at 11 games under .500 and 7.5 back of the AL Central lead, but these next six weeks are important. The “Triplets” are playing well, and with Baez hopefully carrying some good thoughts into the offseason – should he continue to see the ball well – it sets up some anticipation for the 2024 season. We’ll see how it goes.
TL;DR:
- Detroit Tigers triumph 4-3 against Cleveland Guardians, propelled by Javier Baez’s return.
- Baez’s game-winning home run, following his bereavement-list absence, could mark a pivotal moment.
- Baez’s resurgence showcases renewed plate approach with 3 hits in 8 at-bats, including a home run and stolen base.
- Tigers aim to conclude their extended road trip with a 5-4 record and maintain hopes for the 2024 season.