Javier Baez is one of baseball’s most electrifying players, known for his incredible fielding, powerful bat, and unique flair on the diamond. Nicknamed “El Mago” (The Magician), Baez has dazzled fans with his quick hands, fearless slides, and highlight-reel plays since his Major League debut.
As of 2025, he continues to be a key player for the Detroit Tigers, bringing excitement and leadership to the team. Baez’s journey from Bayamón, Puerto Rico, to MLB stardom is a story of talent, perseverance, and passion for the game.
Javier Baez’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ednel Javier Báez |
| Date of Birth | December 1, 1992 |
| Age | 32 |
| Education | Arlington Country Day School, Jacksonville Univ. |
| Nationality | Puerto Rican |
| Height | 1.83 m (6 ft 0 in) |
| Weight | 190 lbs |
| Turned Pro | 2014 (MLB debut with Chicago Cubs) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $10–$15 million |
| Salary | $25,000,000 |
| Career Earnings | Over $117 million |
| Wife | Irmarie Julitza Márquez |
| Children | Two sons: Adrian Javier, Aiden Javier |
| @javy23baez | |
| @javy23baez |
Early Career
Javier Báez’s early career is a story of determination, family influence, and rapid development as a baseball player. Born on December 1, 1992, in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, Báez was introduced to baseball by his father, Ángel Luis Báez, who played for the Puerto Rican national team. This early exposure to the sport, along with the support of his two brothers and a sister, laid the foundation for his passion and skill in baseball.
The Báez family moved to Florida in 2005, seeking medical treatment for his sister, Noely, who was born with spina bifida. This transition was challenging for Javier, especially as he did not speak English when he arrived. He worked hard to learn the language over three years, memorizing words and phrases before fully understanding them, which helped him adapt to his new environment.
Javier attended Arlington Country Day School in Jacksonville, Florida, where his baseball talent started to shine. Initially, scouts recognized his talent but doubted he could become a star. However, his high school coach, Ron Dickerson, noted that Báez’s relentless work ethic and drive set him apart from other players. As a sophomore, Báez posted a .463 batting average, with 38 hits, including nine doubles and 13 home runs, and drove in 60 runs in just 25 games.
By his junior year, he was recognized as an Aflac All-American, a prestigious honor for high school players. His senior year was even more impressive, as he recorded 64 hits in 83 at-bats, resulting in a remarkable .771 batting average, with 20 doubles, 10 home runs, and 52 RBIs over 30 games. Báez’s versatility was evident as he played multiple positions, including second base, shortstop, center field, and catcher, always adapting to the needs of his team.
Professional Career
Javier Báez’s professional career is a remarkable journey defined by dynamic play, major achievements, and a reputation as one of baseball’s most exciting athletes. After being selected ninth overall by the Chicago Cubs in the 2011 MLB Draft, Báez made his Major League debut on August 5, 2014, with the Cubs.
He immediately made an impression, hitting a home run in his very first game. His early seasons showcased both his immense talent and areas for growth, as he displayed flashes of power and defensive brilliance while working to improve his plate discipline and consistency.
Báez’s breakthrough came during the 2016 season, when he became a central figure in the Cubs’ historic run to their first World Series title in 108 years. His defensive skills, quick tags, and aggressive base running were on full display throughout the postseason. Báez was named co-MVP of the National League Championship Series (NLCS), sharing the honor with Jon Lester, as the Cubs clinched the pennant.
In the World Series, Báez contributed key hits and spectacular plays, helping the Cubs defeat the Cleveland Indians in a dramatic seven-game series. This championship cemented his place in Cubs history and established him as a clutch performer on the biggest stage.
Over the next several seasons, Báez continued to develop into one of the game’s top shortstops and infielders. In 2018, he enjoyed his best offensive season, finishing second in National League MVP voting. That year, he hit 34 home runs, drove in 111 runs, and stole 21 bases, earning his first All-Star selection, a Silver Slugger Award, and leading the National League in RBIs.
His combination of power, speed, and defensive wizardry made him a fan favorite and a staple on highlight reels. Báez’s fearless style—whether making no-look tags, stealing home, or swinging for the fences—earned him the nickname “El Mago,” meaning “The Magician.
Wife
Javier Baez is married to Irmarie Julitza Márquez, a social media beauty influencer from Puerto Rico. The couple first met in middle school when they were both 13 years old.
They reconnected in 2013, and Irmarie later moved to Chicago to be with Javier. The two got engaged in April 2018 and were married in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in January 2019.
Javier and Irmarie have two sons. Their first child, Adrian Javier Baez Márquez, was born in July 2018. Their second son, Aiden Javier, was born on December 22, 2020. The family is close-knit and often shares moments from their lives on social media.
Irmarie is active on Instagram (@irmariebaez), where she posts about beauty, lifestyle, and family. Despite their public profiles, the couple values privacy and focuses on raising their children in a loving environment.
Javier Baez’s Net Worth Details
Javier Baez’s net worth is estimated to be between $10 million and $15 million as of 2025.
Contract
Javier Báez signed a six-year, $140 million contract with the Detroit Tigers in December 2021, making him one of the highest-paid shortstops in Major League Baseball. The deal is fully guaranteed and includes an average annual salary of about $23.3 million.
His contract features a 10-team no-trade clause, giving Báez some control over potential trades, and offers performance bonuses for achievements like winning the MVP or Hank Aaron Award.
The contract also included an opt-out clause after the 2023 season, which Báez chose not to exercise, ensuring he remains with the Tigers through at least the 2027 season before becoming a free agent in 2028.
Salary
For the 2025 MLB season, Javier Báez is earning a base salary of $25 million as part of his contract with the Detroit Tigers. This substantial salary reflects his status as a key player and one of the team’s highest-paid athletes.
Each year of his six-year deal includes a similar annual salary, providing Báez with both financial security and recognition for his contributions on the field. His salary for 2025 continues to place him among the top earners at his position in Major League Baseball.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team(s) | Cash Total | Cash Cumulative |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | – | $2,625,000 | $2,625,000 |
| 2014 | Chicago Cubs | $150,273 | $2,775,273 |
| 2015 | Chicago Cubs | $91,516 | $2,866,789 |
| 2016 | Chicago Cubs | $521,000 | $3,387,789 |
| 2017 | Chicago Cubs | $609,000 | $3,996,789 |
| 2018 | Chicago Cubs | $657,000 | $4,653,789 |
| 2019 | Chicago Cubs | $5,200,000 | $9,853,789 |
| 2020 | Chicago Cubs | $3,703,704 | $13,557,493 |
| 2021 | Cubs/Mets | $11,650,000 | $25,207,493 |
| 2022 | Detroit Tigers | $20,000,000 | $45,207,493 |
| 2023 | Detroit Tigers | $22,000,000 | $67,207,493 |
| 2024 | Detroit Tigers | $25,000,000 | $92,207,493 |
| 2025 | Detroit Tigers | $25,000,000 | $117,207,493 |
Endorsements
Javier Báez has secured several high-profile endorsement deals throughout his MLB career, reflecting his popularity and marketability both on and off the field. He has partnered with major brands such as Nike, which supplies his on-field apparel and footwear, and David’s Sunflower Seeds, a favorite among baseball players and fans.
Báez has also appeared in campaigns for Toyota and T-Mobile, leveraging his energetic personality and wide fan base. Additionally, he has participated in youth baseball events and clinics through ProCamps and has worked with Walgreens on community initiatives. These endorsements not only add to his income but also help him connect with fans and inspire young athletes around the world.
MLB Career Stats
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Batting Average | .251 |
| Hits | 1,113 |
| Home Runs | 181 |
| Runs Batted In | 632 |
| Stolen Bases | 110 |
| On-Base % | .293 |
| Slugging % | .436 |
| OPS | .729 |
| Games Played | 1,200+ |
FAQs
1. Who is Javier Báez and what is his background?
Javier Báez is a Puerto Rican professional baseball player, known by the nickname “El Mago” (the Magician). Born on December 1, 1992, in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, he moved to Jacksonville, Florida, for high school. He was drafted ninth overall by the Chicago Cubs in the 2011 MLB draft and made his MLB debut in 2014. He currently plays shortstop for the Detroit Tigers.
2. What teams has Javier Báez played for in Major League Baseball?
Javier Báez began his MLB career with the Chicago Cubs, where he played for eight years. In 2021, he was traded to the New York Mets. After the 2021 season, he signed with the Detroit Tigers, where he continues his career as of 2025.
3. What are Javier Báez’s career highlights and awards?
Javier Báez has achieved several notable milestones, including being a two-time All-Star, winning a Gold Glove Award, a Silver Slugger Award, and being named co-MVP of the 2016 National League Championship Series. He played a key role in the Cubs’ 2016 World Series victory and has also represented Puerto Rico in international competitions.
4. What is Javier Báez’s current contract and salary with the Detroit Tigers?
Javier Báez signed a six-year, $140 million contract with the Detroit Tigers, which is fully guaranteed. His average annual salary is $23,333,333, and in 2025, he will earn a base salary of $25 million. The contract includes a 10-team no-trade clause and performance bonuses.
5. What are some of Javier Báez’s most notable achievements with the Chicago Cubs?
With the Cubs, Báez helped the team win the 2016 World Series, their first in over a century. He was named co-MVP of the 2016 NLCS, hit several crucial home runs in the postseason, and was recognized for his defensive versatility and base-running skills. He also finished as the runner-up for the 2018 National League MVP.
6. What are Javier Báez’s career MLB statistics as of 2025?
Javier Báez has a career batting average of .252, with 1,112 hits, 181 home runs, 632 runs batted in (RBI), and 110 stolen bases over 4,420 at-bats. His career on-base percentage is .294, and his OPS is .730.
7. What is Javier Báez’s playing style and why is he nicknamed “El Mago”?
Báez is known for his flashy and creative defensive plays, quick tags, and aggressive base running, earning him the nickname “El Mago” for his magical skills on the field. He is recognized for his ability to play multiple infield positions and for making highlight-reel plays.
8. Has Javier Báez had any controversies or notable incidents during his career?
while playing for the Mets, Báez received criticism for making a thumbs-down gesture to fans in response to being booed. The incident drew public attention, and Mets ownership addressed it. However, Báez quickly responded on the field, scoring a game-winning run in the next game.
9. What is Javier Báez’s relationship to other MLB players?
Javier Báez is the brother-in-law of José Berríos, a pitcher in Major League Baseball. This family connection highlights the strong baseball ties within his family.
10. What are some unique records or feats accomplished by Javier Báez?
Báez is one of only 19 players in MLB history to steal home in a playoff game. He was also the first Cubs player since 1954 to hit three home runs in his first three MLB games and the first since 1907 to steal home in a postseason game for the Cubs. His combination of power, speed, and defense makes him a rare talent in the league.
