The Detroit Tigers made a number of changes this offseason, creating some optimism. None were bigger than the signing of Javier Baez. On Opening Day in Detroit Friday, Baez rewarded the Tigers brass by hitting a walk-off for a 5-4 comeback victory over the Chicago White Sox.
After the game, Baez was soaked by his teammate with water while being interviewed on the field.
We hear from Javier Baez after his walk-off RBI hit gives the #Tigers a 5-4 victory over the White Sox on Opening Day. #DetroitRoots pic.twitter.com/O4C5KXwpRh
— Bally Sports Detroit (@BallySportsDET) April 8, 2022
“I can barely breathe… I'm very happy we came all the way back… fans, it's not going to be easy this year, but it's going to be fun. We need your support. Let's go Tigers,” Baez said.
Baez, in a moment of truth and honesty, appeared to recognize that Detroit is likely looking at a long season. There are far more talented teams in both baseball as a whole and the AL Central. But on this day, Baez and Tigers fans can celebrate.
The walk-off itself was extremely improbable. The Tigers, who trailed almost the entire game, had come from behind in the bottom of the eighth to tie it at 3. However, the White Sox then scored a run in the top of the ninth, setting the stage for the strange walk-off.
JAVIER BÁEZ WITH THE CRAZIEST WALK-OFF IN HIS FIRST GAME AS A TIGER 🤯 pic.twitter.com/IkwwIruk2t
— Cubs Zone ™️ (@CubsZone) April 8, 2022
Baez came to the dish with a runner on third with two outs. The newest Tigers addition hit a line drive to the wall in right field. Chicago right fielder AJ Pollock appeared to bobble but make the catch, ending the inning. However, upon review, the umpires determined that the ball actually hit the wall. Therefore, it is a single and a game-ending base hit.
For now, the Tigers sit atop the AL Central.
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