Javier Báez moves to Detroit. The Puerto Rican infielder is close to signing a $ 140 million, six-year contract with the Tigers, an acquisition that will allow Detroit to add a dynamic hitter to the core of its offensive order.
Baez, who Turning 29 on Wednesday, he hit .265 with 31 homers and 87 RBIs in 138 games. with the Cubs and Mets last season.
By signing with the Tigers, Baez will likely return to shortstop after finishing last year at second base. with his compatriot and friend Francisco Lindor in New York.
A person with direct knowledge of the negotiation confirmed Tuesday to The Associated Pressthe agreement on condition of anonymity because the contract has not been finalized.
Detroit had been looking for a shortstop since they finished last season 77-85. and third in the AL Central, behind Cleveland and the Chicago White Sox.
The Tigers also crystallized a trade with the Cincinnati Reds for catcher Tucker Barnhart. and signed Venezuelan left-hander Eduardo Rodríguez in free agency.