CLEVELAND — The Detroit Tigers will be without shortstop Javier Báez for the first of three games against the Cleveland Guardians with the American League Central on the line.

Báez is injured.

The Tigers scratched Báez from the starting lineup Tuesday, Sept. 23, because of neck stiffness 33 minutes before the 6:40 p.m. first pitch for the opener of the series at Progressive Field. The severity of the injury is unknown. ONE BIG CONCERN: Why worry about Tigers in AL Central showdown? Only 2 left-handers in bullpen

Báez was set to play shortstop and bat ninth against the Guardians, facing right-hander Gavin Williams . He was replaced in the lineup by Trey Sweeney . Expert MLB daily picks: Unique MLB betting insights only at USA TODAY

The 32-year-old started each of the pas

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