Tigers' Javier Baez throws it back to 2017 with epic ALDS Game 4

Javier Baez stepped in a time machine and brought us all back to 2017.

Specifically, Oct. 18, 2017.

That day, Baez hit two home runs for the Chicago Cubs.

It was the last time he had homered in the playoffs.

That is, until Wednesday night for the Detroit Tigers.

MORE: Aaron Judge's homer might've been the best swing ever

Baez launched a home run, drove in four runs and helped the Tigers extend their season to a fifth and decisive game in the ALDS against the Seattle Mariners.

Baez's journey hasn't been a straight line. For the last couple seasons in Detroit, he looked like he was tumbling to a sad irrelevance.

And then something changed this year.

MORE: Cal Raleigh copied Babe Ruth in the most eerie, magical way

First, the Tigers used him in centerfield. It was a change for a guy who earned the nickname El Mago for his fielding, but maybe it was just enough different to create a new mindset for Baez.

This was a new year, a new him, and a chance to redeem himself.

He still swings and misses a lot. He still chases a lot.

But more often this season, Baez has stayed disciplined, and when he's gotten pitches to hit, more often, he's hit them well.

Never more so than on Wednesday evening in Detroit, and so the Tigers, and Baez, play on.

More MLB News:

• Vladdy Jr. joins Hank Aaron in MLB playoff history
• Aaron Judge makes Yankees history not done since 1960
• Logan Gilbert is 2nd Mariners pitcher to ever do this in the playoffs
• Cal Raleigh hit his 61st home run to a guy with the perfect shirt
• Ernie Clement makes personal history in ALDS for Toronto
• Josh Naylor's baby update leaves Mariners fans wanting more