With his batting average plummeting, Trey Sweeney of the Detroit Tigers is experiencing that dreaded sophomore slump. On May 14, the shortstop was riding high with an impressive .265/.333/.720 slash line. But baseball can be a humbling game, and since that date, Sweeney’s bat has cooled off significantly, turning his once sizzling start into a chilly 5-for-48 streak accompanied by 16 strikeouts and a noticeable absence of extra-base hits.
As you’d expect, this downturn has led to some adjustments in the Tigers’ lineup card. In the lead-up to Saturday’s matchup against the Chicago Cubs, Sweeney’s role had been scaled back, with the young slugger starting only one of the previous four games. Fans let their feelings be known on social media when the lineup dropped featuring Sweeney batting ninth—a clear indicator of their growing discontent.
Performance-wise, Sweeney didn’t exactly light up the stat sheet against the Cubs. In his two trips to the plate, he first grounded into a double play off Jameson Taillon in the third inning, then popped up to first base during his second at-bat in the fifth. His day ended with an 0-for-2 line, replaced by Jahmai Jones come the eighth inning.
Social media echoed the story of his struggles, with calls suggesting that a trip to Toledo might be on the horizon for the struggling Tigers prospect. These aren’t knee-jerk reactions from the fans but rather an acknowledgment that Sweeney, once a beacon of hope for the franchise, is now battling demons at the plate—leading some to call for a reset that only a stint in the minors can offer.
Tigers manager AJ Hinch, when approached by reporters, shared insights on the current strategy, saying the dip in playing time is part of a broader plan to give Sweeney the breathing room he needs to tweak his swing mechanics and plate approach. Meanwhile, Hinch has been leaning on utility man Zach McKinstry more heavily in the shortstop role. The return of Javier Báez to the infield mix, with his ability to maneuver around second, third, and shortstop, also shuffles the deck in the Tigers’ favor as they navigate this period without having to rush to judgment on Sweeney.
Colt Keith entering the fray at third base adds another layer to the unfolding storyline. His presence might hint at potential plans in the works should a more permanent shift occur concerning Sweeney’s role.
For now, the Tigers seem to be playing the waiting game, resisting any swift moves like demoting Sweeney. But if these offensive woes linger, this patience will be tested. Right now, though, sliding Sweeney into major league lineups looks increasingly like a gamble the Tigers might not continue to take—especially when the stakes are as high as keeping their season’s progress on track.
