At 26 years old, Baddoo has been with the Tigers since 2021 but started this spring training as a non-roster player after being designated for assignment in December 2024.

Manager A.J. Hinch revealed that outfielder Akil Baddoo has been dealing with persistent wrist soreness since the start of spring training, leading to further tests that uncovered a hamate hook fracture in his right hand.

Typically, recovery from this type of wrist surgery takes about four to eight weeks before an athlete can resume baseball activities.

Despite showing slight improvement in 2023, Baddoo's performance has been below average, limiting his opportunities as younger talents emerge.

Baddoo's injury during the first week of spring training complicates his chances of returning to the major leagues and solidifying his position on the team.

In the previous season, Baddoo struggled significantly, hitting just .137 with two home runs and five RBIs over 31 games, which brought his career batting average to .226.

The Tigers are also facing challenges with veteran right-hander Alex Cobb, who is expected to miss the start of the season due to hip inflammation.

As the Detroit Tigers gear up for Spring Training, they are focusing on finalizing their Opening Day roster, which begins on February 22, 2025.

Baddoo underwent surgery on February 20, 2025, to repair the broken bone, which will sideline him for an unspecified recovery period and cause him to miss the remainder of spring training.

Following his designation for assignment, Baddoo cleared waivers and was outrighted to Triple-A Toledo, where he is currently participating in spring training.

Baddoo is competing for a spot in a crowded outfield that includes six players on the Tigers' 40-man roster, featuring notable left-handed hitters like Riley Greene, Kerry Carpenter, and Parker Meadows.

Given his recent injury and the depth of talent in the outfield, Baddoo was not expected to make the 2025 Opening Day roster.