Javier Báez's two-homer night powered the Detroit Tigers to a 7-3 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates on June 18, 2025. See how El Mago's magic led the charge.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was bombs away at Comerica Park on Wednesday night as the Detroit Tigers put on a power-hitting clinic, led by a resurgent Javier Báez. El Mago pulled two home runs out of his hat, propelling the Tigers to a decisive 7-3 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates and reminding everyone just how dangerous this lineup can be.
Javier Báez delivered a standout performance, hitting two home runs and driving in four runs in the Tigers' 7-3 win.
The story of the night was pure, unadulterated power. The Tigers launched four baseballs into the stands, but Javier Báez was the undisputed star. His two-homer, four-RBI night was a vintage performance, single-handedly breaking the game open and electrifying the home crowd. It wasn't just a solo act, though. The entire lineup contributed to the barrage, showcasing the kind of deep-ball threat that makes this team so formidable. When the bats are this hot, the Tigers are a tough team to beat.
While the offense grabbed the headlines, the pitching staff quietly did its job to secure the win. Holding the Pirates to just three runs is no small feat, and the bullpen was solid in relief, shutting the door in the final innings. This steady performance from the arms is even more impressive considering the recent shuffling, with the team activating RHP Carlos Hernández just before the series. The move, which saw RHP Tyler Owens optioned to Toledo, seems to be paying off, providing a fresh arm to a bullpen that is crucial to locking down these late-game leads.
Another win means another notch in the belt for the Tigers at Comerica Park. Their home record now stands at an imposing 25-11, cementing their status as one of the toughest teams to face on their own turf. This victory pushes their season record to 47-27 and continues a solid 6-4 run in their last ten games. More importantly, it keeps them firmly planted atop the AL Central, sending a clear message to their rivals that the road to the division title runs through Detroit.
With the offense firing on all cylinders and a fortress-like record at Comerica Park, the Tigers are not just leading the AL Central; they're making a statement. As they look to complete the series against the Pirates, maintaining this power surge will be key to extending their divisional lead and proving they are a legitimate force to be reckoned with in the American League.
