Javier Báez facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Javier Báez
Báez with the Cubs in 2017
Detroit Tigers – No. 28
Utility player
Born: (1992-12-01) December 1, 1992 (age 32) Bayamón, Puerto Rico
Bats: Right Throws: Right
debut
August 5, 2014, for the Chicago Cubs
MLB statistics (through July 27, 2025)
Batting average	.252
Hits	1,177
Home runs	191
Runs batted in	668
Stolen bases	114
Teams
Chicago Cubs (2014–2021) New York Mets (2021) Detroit Tigers (2022–present)
Career highlights and awards
MLB 3× All-Star (2018, 2019, 2025) World Series champion (2016) NLCS MVP (2016) Gold Glove Award (2020) Silver Slugger Award (2018) 4× Fielding Bible Award (2016–2018, 2020) NL RBI leader (2018) International 2x All-WBC Team (2017, 2023)
Medals Men's baseball Representing  Puerto Rico World Baseball Classic Silver 2017 Los Angeles Team

Ednel Javier "Javy" Báez (born December 1, 1992) is a professional baseball player from Puerto Rico. He is known as "El Mago" (which means "the Magician" in Spanish) because of his amazing plays. Javy plays as a utility player for the Detroit Tigers in Major League Baseball (MLB). He also played for the Chicago Cubs and New York Mets. Báez proudly represents the Puerto Rican national team in international games.

Javier was born in Puerto Rico and later moved to Jacksonville, Florida for high school. The Cubs picked him ninth overall in the 2011 MLB draft. He started playing in MLB in 2014 and stayed with the Cubs for eight years. In 2021, he was traded to the Mets. After that season, he signed a six-year contract with the Tigers.

Báez was a co-MVP of the National League Championship Series in 2016. This helped the Cubs win the National League title and then the 2016 World Series. He has been an All-Star three times. He also won a Gold Glove Award for his great defense and a Silver Slugger Award for his hitting. Javy Báez was even featured on the cover of the video game MLB The Show 20.

Early Life and Baseball Dreams

Javier Báez grew up in Puerto Rico with his two brothers, Gadiel and Rolando. Their father, Ángel Luis Báez, taught them about baseball. He was a big influence on their love for the sport before he passed away when Javier was ten. To remember their passion, the brothers got tattoos of the MLB logo. This showed that "baseball has been in [their] lives forever."

In 2005, Báez moved to Florida with his mother and siblings. They moved so his sister, Noely, could get medical help for her spina bifida condition. When he first moved, Javier found it hard to adjust because he didn't speak English well. He learned the language over three years by trying and making mistakes. He would memorize words even before knowing what they truly meant.

Amateur Baseball Journey

Báez went to Arlington Country Day School (ACD) in Jacksonville. His coach, Ron Dickerson, said that scouts didn't see him as a future star at first. They saw his talent but didn't think he would become famous. Coach Dickerson said that Báez's hard work helped him become a top player.

In his second year, he had a .463 batting average. He got 38 hits, including nine doubles and 13 home runs. He also had 60 runs batted in (RBIs) in 25 games. By his third year, Báez was a highly-rated Aflac All-American player. In his final year, he hit .771 with 64 hits, 20 doubles, and 10 home runs. He also had 52 RBIs in 30 games.

During his time at ACD, Báez played many different positions. He played second base, shortstop, center fielder, and even catcher. He planned to play college baseball at Jacksonville University.

Professional Baseball Career

Starting with the Chicago Cubs

Minor League Years (2011–2014)

The Chicago Cubs chose Báez as the ninth overall pick in the 2011 MLB draft. He signed with the Cubs for $2.6 million. He started his professional career as a shortstop for the Arizona League Cubs. He then moved to the Boise Hawks.

Báez batting in the Florida State League All-Star Game in 2013

Before the 2012 season, MLB.com ranked Báez as the 62nd-best young player in baseball. He played for the Peoria Chiefs and then the Daytona Cubs. Baseball America called him the "Most Exciting Player in the Midwest League." They also said he was the "Best Defensive Infielder" in the Cubs' system.

In 2013, Báez was invited to spring training with the Cubs' main team. He hit four home runs in two games, showing off his power. He returned to the Daytona Cubs and on June 10, 2013, he hit four home runs in one game! This was only the second time that had happened in the Florida State League.

The Cubs promoted Báez to the Tennessee Smokies in July 2013. He was named the Cubs' Minor League Player of the Year. He finished the season as the top young player in the Cubs' system.

Báez with the Iowa Cubs in 2014

In 2014, Báez practiced at second base and third base to become more versatile. He started the season with the Iowa Cubs. He had a tough start but then began to hit better.

Rookie Season in MLB (2014)

On August 5, 2014, the Cubs called Báez up to the major leagues. In his very first game, he hit a home run in the 12th inning to win the game! He was the first player since 2003 to hit an extra-innings home run in his debut. In his third game, Báez hit two more home runs. This made him the first player since 1954 to hit three home runs in his first three MLB games.

Javy finished his rookie season playing shortstop after another player got hurt. In 52 games, he hit 9 home runs and had 20 RBIs.

Continuing to Grow (2015)

After a tough spring training, Báez started the 2015 season back in Iowa. He played well there, hitting .324. He was called back up to the major leagues in September. In the playoffs, his three-run home run helped the Cubs win against the St. Louis Cardinals. This win sent the Cubs to the National League Championship Series.

World Series Champions (2016)

Báez celebrating after winning the 2016 World Series

In 2016, Báez hit some big home runs for the Cubs. On May 8, he hit a solo home run in the 13th inning to win a game against the Washington Nationals. On June 28, he hit a grand slam in the 15th inning to win against the Cincinnati Reds.

In the playoffs, Báez continued to shine. He hit a solo home run in Game 1 of the 2016 National League Division Series that was the only run in a 1–0 Cubs victory. This was the Cubs' first 1–0 playoff win since 1906. He also helped the Cubs win Game 4, sending them to the 2016 National League Championship Series.

In the National League Championship Series, Báez stole home in Game 1. This was a rare and exciting play! He and Jon Lester were named co-MVPs of the series. Báez helped the Cubs win the 2016 World Series against the Cleveland Indians. This was the Cubs' first World Series win in 108 years! Báez also won the Fielding Bible Award for his excellent defense at many positions.

Switching to Shortstop (2017)

In 2017, Báez became known for his quick tags on players trying to steal bases. Cubs manager Joe Maddon said Báez's defense was very important to the team's success. Báez played a lot at both second base and shortstop. He finished the season with a .273 batting average, 23 home runs, and 75 RBIs. He won the Fielding Bible's Multi-Position award for the second year in a row.

MVP Runner-Up and All-Star (2018)

Báez during the 2018 Home Run Derby

In 2018, Báez had an amazing season. On April 10 and 11, he hit two home runs in back-to-back games against the Pittsburgh Pirates. By May 27, he had 13 home runs and was the first Cubs player since 2005 to have 40 RBIs before Memorial Day.

On July 9, Báez was chosen to start at second base for the 2018 Major League Baseball All-Star Game. This was his first All-Star selection. He was only the second player in MLB history to have at least 18 home runs, 18 doubles, 18 stolen bases, and 5 triples by the All-Star break. Báez also took part in the 2018 Home Run Derby.

He finished the 2018 season with a .290 batting average, 34 home runs, and a league-leading 111 RBIs. He also stole 21 bases. He came in second place for the National League Most Valuable Player award.

Second All-Star Selection (2019)

Báez with the Cubs in 2019

In 2019, Báez continued to play well at shortstop. He was leading the team in many hitting stats. He hit his 100th career home run on June 23. In July, he was named to his second All-Star Game. He even tried batting left-handed in one game! Unfortunately, he injured his thumb in September, which ended his season early. He still finished with a .281 batting average, 29 home runs, and 85 RBIs.

Gold Glove Winner (2020)

The 2020 season was shorter due to world events. Báez had some struggles with his hitting, but his defense remained outstanding. He won his first Gold Glove Award for his excellent play at shortstop.

Final Season in Chicago (2021)

In 2021, Báez made a very unusual play on May 27. He hit a ground ball, and instead of running to first base, he ran back towards home plate. This confused the other team and allowed his teammate to score a run! He then safely reached first base himself. This play became a viral moment.

Near the trade deadline, Báez was hitting .248 with 22 home runs and 65 RBIs. He was known for his exciting plays but also for making some errors.

Moving to the New York Mets (2021)

Mid-Season Trade

On July 30, 2021, Báez was traded to the New York Mets. He chose to wear number 23 to honor a Cubs Hall of Famer. He hit a two-run home run in his Mets debut on July 31.

Later, Báez moved to second base when his friend Francisco Lindor returned from injury and took over at shortstop. There was a moment where Báez and Lindor had a misunderstanding with some fans, but they quickly apologized. Báez's performance on the field improved, and he helped the Mets in their push for the playoffs.

Playing for the Detroit Tigers

First Year in Detroit (2022)

Báez playing for the Detroit Tigers in September 2022

On December 1, 2021, Báez signed a six-year contract with the Detroit Tigers. He chose to wear number 28. In his Tigers debut on April 8, 2022, Báez hit a game-winning single in the ninth inning! He led the Tigers with 17 home runs that season.

Continued Efforts (2023)

Báez in 2023

In 2023, Báez had some ups and downs. He was benched for a game after not running hard on a play. He later said, "My mind is everywhere right now," and "I'm just trying to focus on my hitting." After this, he played much better, helping the Tigers win games. On June 21, Báez got his 1,000th career hit!

Injury-Shortened Season (2024)

Báez's 2024 season was affected by injuries. He played in 80 games, hitting six home runs and 37 RBIs. In August, he had hip surgery, which ended his season.

Switch to Center Field (2025)

Báez playing center field at Angel Stadium in 2025

After his surgery, Báez worked hard to recover. He spent time rehabbing in Puerto Rico and at the Tigers' training complex. During spring training in 2025, he started practicing at both center field and third base.

On April 6, Báez played center field for the first time in a game. He went 3-for-4 with a double and an RBI, helping the Tigers win. On April 21, he made his first career start in center field. His first home run of the season was a grand slam on April 30. The next day, he made an amazing play, robbing a home run from a former teammate!

On May 13, Báez hit two home runs in a game against the Boston Red Sox. The second one was a walk-off home run in the eleventh inning, winning the game for the Tigers! This was his second career walk-off home run. He had another two-homer game on June 17.

Báez's hitting improved a lot in 2025 because he changed his batting stance. He stood closer to the pitcher, which helped him hit breaking balls better. His batting average against breaking balls went up significantly.

On July 2, Báez was voted as a starting outfielder for the 2025 Major League Baseball All-Star Game. This was his third All-Star selection, and each time he was chosen for a different position: second base in 2018, shortstop in 2019, and now outfield in 2025! This shows how versatile he is. At the All-Star break, he was hitting .275 with 10 home runs and 39 RBIs.

International Baseball for Puerto Rico

World Baseball Classic

2017 Tournament

Javier Báez played for the Puerto Rican national team in the 2017 World Baseball Classic. He got his first WBC hit on March 10, 2017, and later hit his first WBC home run against Mexico. Puerto Rico played very well, finishing their pool with a perfect 3–0 record. Báez stole three bases in one game, showing his speed. Puerto Rico made it to the championship game but lost to the United States. Báez finished as the stolen bases leader and was named to the 2017 All-World Baseball Classic team as the second baseman.

2023 Tournament

Báez played for Puerto Rico again in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. He had a great game against Israel, helping his team win 10–0. Puerto Rico finished their pool with a 3–1 record. In the quarterfinals against Mexico, Báez hit a home run. Even though Puerto Rico lost that game, Báez had a strong tournament, hitting .368 with a home run and six RBIs. He was again voted as the second baseman for the 2023 All-World Baseball Classic team.

Javy's Playing Style

Javier Báez is known for his amazing defense. He can cover a lot of ground in the infield and has a very strong arm. His throws from shortstop can reach speeds of up to 92 miles per hour! When he hits, the ball comes off his bat with a lot of power. He averages 89.4 mph on his hits and has even reached 116.7 mph.

Báez is also known for being an aggressive hitter. He swings at a lot of pitches, even those outside the strike zone. This makes him an exciting but sometimes unpredictable player. His mix of power, speed, and incredible defense makes him one of the most thrilling players to watch in MLB.

Career Highlights and Awards

Championships and Honors

Annual Statistical Achievements

Other Notable Achievements

• Second FSL player to hit four home runs in a single game (June 10, 2013)
• Hit a home run in the 11th inning of his major league debut (August 5, 2014)
• First MLB player since Joe Cunningham in 1954 to hit three home runs in their first three games (August 5–7, 2014)
• Hit a walk-off home run in the 13th inning vs. the Washington Nationals (May 8, 2016)
• Hit a grand slam in the 15th inning vs. the Cincinnati Reds (June 28, 2016)
• Hit a home run in the 8th inning in Game 1 of the NLDS vs. the San Francisco Giants (October 7, 2016)
• Hit a single that drove in the winning run to send the Cubs to the 2016 NLCS (October 11, 2016)
• First Cub since Jimmy Slagle in 1907 and 19th MLB player to steal home in a postseason game (October 15, 2016)
• Won the Cubs' first World Series since 1908, ending the club's 108-year drought (November 2, 2016)
• First Cub since Derrek Lee in 2005 to have 40 RBIs before Memorial Day (2018)
• Hit his 50th career home run (April 11, 2018)
• Second MLB player to have 18 home runs, 18 doubles, 18 stolen bases, and five triples by the All-Star break (2018)
• Became the fifth Cub to hit 30 home runs and have 100 RBIs by their age-25 season (September 2, 2018)
• Finished second to Christian Yelich in NL Most Valuable Player Award voting (2018)
• Hit his 100th career home run (June 23, 2019)
• Hit a home run in his New York Mets debut (July 31, 2021)
• Scored the winning run in the 9th inning comeback win against the Miami Marlins (August 30, 2021)
• Hit his 150th career home run when he hit a walk-off home run in his Detroit Tigers debut (April 8, 2022)
• Collected his 1,000th career hit (June 21, 2023)

Personal Life

Báez with his wife and child in 2019

Javier Báez's sister, Noely, passed away on April 8, 2015, at age 21. She had spina bifida. Báez took time off from playing to be with his family. Báez is mostly left-handed; he eats and writes with his left hand. He believes this helps him in baseball. He chose "El Mago" (Spanish for "The Magician") as his nickname for Players Weekend in 2017 and 2018.

Báez got engaged to his longtime girlfriend, Irmarie Márquez, on April 11, 2018. Their son was born on June 28, 2018. The couple got married in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on January 26, 2019. Irmarie is the sister of Jannieliz Márquez, who is married to Puerto Rican pitcher José Berríos.

See also

In Spanish: Javier Báez para niños