Tigers’ Maeda Struggles, Báez Shows Signs of Life in 2025 Season

DETROIT, Mich. — Kenta Maeda‘s performance has raised concerns during the 2025 MLB season. Despite being a veteran, the 37-year-old pitcher has seen most of his outings occur in low-leverage situations, often when the game is out of reach for the Detroit Tigers. The team has utilized Maeda in six relief appearances, collectively earning him a high earned run average.

On April 29, Maeda surprised fans by pitching a clean inning against the Houston Astros, allowing no hits, no runs, and no walks. He struck out one batter in the eighth inning while the Tigers were trailing by four runs. However, Maeda’s struggles were evident when he threw an ill-fated 2-1 pitch to Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña, which drew comparisons to the worst pitch of the season.

After hitting Peña with the following pitch, Maeda did settle down and finished the inning by striking out José Altuve. Despite this brief moment of success, the Tigers ultimately lost the game 6-4, leaving fans to ponder over Maeda’s troubling season.

On a brighter note, Javier Báez has appeared rejuvenated in the 2025 season. Once considered a franchise cornerstone by the Tigers, he struggled significantly in 2024, hitting just .184 across 289 plate appearances. However, in the early part of 2025, Báez has displayed improved skills at the plate, showing noticeable changes in his batting stance and approach.

Before a 7-0 victory over the Astros, Báez reflected, “I am seeing the ball pretty good right now. I am not hitting the ball as hard as I used to, but I believe that it will get there.” His changes have not yet led to a power surge, but Báez did hit his first home run of the year—a grand slam—against the Astros in Houston.

In addition to his improvements at the plate, Báez has emerged as a standout fielder, ranking in the 89th percentile among all major league players for defensive metrics. He has transitioned well to multiple positions, including third base, shortstop, and even center field, showcasing his versatility.

Tigers manager A.J. Hinch praised Báez’s progress, noting, “By and large, it has been a good approach for Javy throughout the first part of the season. I think the power is going to come.”

As the season unfolds, Báez’s increasing effectiveness could be vital for the Tigers, especially as they navigate challenges with other players, including their everyday center fielder who remains on the injured list. For the time being, Báez appears on track to have his best season since joining the Tigers, a welcome sign for a player who had fallen out of favor.