Zach McKinstry Looking To Stay Hot Monday

Detroit Tigers utility man Zach McKinstry is leading off Monday's game against Nathan Eovaldi and the Texas Rangers. It's a tough matchup, but the 28-year-old has been superb with the bat over 44 games, slashing .295/.409/.451 with four home runs, 23 runs, 10 RBI, and 10 steals, and hit .391 over the last week. McKinstry's production came almost out of nowhere after he was drafted in the 33rd round back in 2016, and he owned a .208 average and .652 OPS across his previous three seasons in the big leagues. If he's still available on the waiver wire, fantasy managers should think about adding him to their roster.
May 29 · Source via
Michael Lorenzen Can't Log Win Despite Strong Display

Detroit Tigers right-handed pitcher Michael Lorenzen launched 6.2 innings against the Chicago White Sox on Saturday. He surrendered zero earned runs and punched out four batters for an unfortunate no-decision in the team's 7-3 win. The former two-way player lowered his ERA to 3.50 and his WHIP to 1.10 with the positive showing. Lorenzen has been volatile in 2023, but he's permitted one run or fewer in five of his eight starts. The 31-year-old's fastball velocity is up a tad from last season, making him a usable streaming option in favorable matchups. That could be the case for a rematch with the ChiSox on Friday.
May 27 · Source via
Tigers Acquire Lael Lockhart From Dodgers
According to Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic, the Tigers have swung a trade with the Dodgers in order to acquire left-handed minor leaguer Lael Lockhart, who the club has assigned to Double-A Erie. MLive’s Evan Woodbery adds that the Dodgers are receiving cash considerations in return. Lockhart, 25, was the Dodgers’ ninth-round pick in the…
May 27 · MLB Trade Rumors Detroit Tigers Los Angeles Dodgers Lael LockhartJustyn-Henry Malloy Stays Productive In Triple-A
Detroit Tigers third base prospect Justyn-Henry Malloy drew a bases-loaded walk in Saturday's game for the Toledo Mud Hens. Malloy followed up by going 2-for-5 with two doubles in last Sunday's contest. Malloy is the seventh-ranked prospect in the Tigers system and the best third baseman they have in Triple-A. It's unclear if Malloy will get the promotion anytime soon, but the Tigers have some positional flexibility with their current roster and wouldn't have a hard time finding a place for him. Malloy's ability to get on base and hit for decent power could make him a sneaky add in deeper leagues if he gets the call this year.
May 27 · Source via
Javier Baez Starting On The Bench Saturday

Detroit Tigers shortstop Javier Baez will start on the bench on Saturday against the Chicago White Sox. It will be the first time that Baez isn't in the team's starting lineup in a month, so it's just a regular day of rest. So far in the month of May, the 30-year-old free-swinger has gone 22-for-92 (.239) with two doubles, three home runs, 14 RBI, a stolen base, three walks and 16 strikeouts in 22 games. Baez is probably never going to help fantasy managers in the average department, but he can get hot in bunches and help your power numbers when he's going well. In his absence on Saturday, Zack Short is starting at shortstop and is batting in the nine-hole against White Sox right-hander Jesse Scholtens.
May 27 · Source via
Tarik Skubal Throws Batting Practice Session
Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Tarik Skubal (elbow) threw 20-25 pitches during a live batting practice session on Friday. He faced four batters and didn't give up any hard contact. The left-hander underwent flexor tendon surgery last August. Before that, Skubal had a 3.52 ERA and 1.16 WHIP with an even more impressive 24.5% strikeout rate over 21 starts last season. The Tigers are hopeful that Skubal is ready to return by mid-season, so fantasy managers are going to have to be patient.
May 26 · Source via
Alex Faedo Turns In Career-High 10 Strikeouts
Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Alex Faedo tossed six innings and punched out 10 hitters in the team's 7-2 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Thursday. He gave up only two runs en route to his first win of the campaign and perhaps the best start of his young career. The former first-round pick has been something of a revelation in 2023, not for his middling 4.15 ERA, but his beguiling 0.74 WHIP. Faedo has lent just one free pass across his 21.2 innings of work. Before managers flock to waiver wires to add the 27-year-old, though, consider that he has nightmarish assignment against the upstart Texas Rangers for his next start on Tuesday.
May 26 · Source via
Javier Baez Batting Second Once Again

After batting third Tuesday night, Detroit Tigers shortstop Javier Baez will bat second for the second game in a row Thursday night against the Chicago White Sox and right-hander Lucas Giolito. Baez has seen a slight uptick in his production in the month of May. After hitting just .233 with no home runs in April, he's hit .255 with three home runs in May entering play Thursday. Baez had a three-hit game with three RBI in Kansas City on Monday but has performed better at home this year. He's hit .253 with two home runs and 14 RBI in 19 games in Detroit and will look to keep it going as the Tigers start a four-game home series with the White Sox on Thursday night.
May 25 · Source via
Alex Lange Earns Ninth Save

Detroit Tigers pitcher Alex Lange allowed just one run in the ninth inning, picking up the save in a 6-4 win Wednesday over the Kansas City Royals. Starting with a three-run lead, Lange faced some challenges as he hit the leadoff batter and later allowed a double with one out, putting two runners in scoring position. Despite this, he managed to limit the damage by giving up only a sacrifice fly, which brought in a run. The right-hander has accumulated nine saves this season and has an excellent 1.27 ERA, 0.94 WHIP, and 28 strikeouts across 21 1/3 frames.
May 25 · Source via
Tarik Skubal Ready To Face Hitters
Detroit Tigers lefty Tarik Skubal (elbow) has completed eight bullpen sessions since starting his rehab from an elbow injury that required flexor tendon surgery last season. Now, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reported on Monday, the 26-year-old is ready for a live bullpen, which should come later this week, and is getting closer to a rehab assignment. There is still no exact timetable for his return, but fantasy managers should stay tuned. Skubal was flourishing into the ace of Detroit in 2022 before the ailment, pitching to a 3.52 ERA and 1.16 WHIP with an even more impressive 24.5% strikeout rate and 6.7% walk rate over 21 starts. He'll have value in every league if he can comes back as the player everyone saw last season.
May 23 · Source via
Colt Keith Enjoys Huge Week In Minors
Detroit Tigers minor league infielder Colt Keith is a fast-rising prospect who has continued to turn heads throughout various levels of affiliated ball. The 21-year-old impresses from the left side of the plate with a swing that is fast yet under control. As a result, he is capable of putting the ball in play at a high rate, and he has also reduced his strikeout rate following a tough 2021 campaign. Keith lacks range but has a very strong and effective throwing arm, suggesting his long-term home will be third base despite spending time at second base in the minors. His glovework is currently average at best, but it's an area that he should be able to develop before he reaches the majors. This past week was unforgettable for Keith. The infielder went 13-for-25 with four homers, 10 RBI, four walks, and five strikeouts. Although he had multiple strong outings during this six-game stretch, his best came on May 16 when he went 6-for-6, slugged two home runs, and hit for the cycle.
May 23 · Source via
Marlins Acquire Jonathan Davis From Tigers

The Tigers announced that they have traded outfielder Jonathan Davis to the Marlins in exchange for minor league outfielder Brady Allen. Neither player had a 40-man roster spot prior to the deal so no corresponding moves will be required in that regard. Allen is expected to join the High-A West Michigan Whitecaps, reports Chris McCosky…
May 22 · MLB Trade Rumors Miami Marlins Detroit Tigers Jonathan DavisRiley Greene Homers, Logs Third Straight Multi-Hit Effort

Detroit Tigers outfielder Riley Greene went 2-for-4 with a home run and an additional run scored as the team held off a furious Washington Nationals comeback to win 8-6 on Friday. The 22-year-old is riding a modest five-game hitting streak, but more importantly, he's now 8-for-13 in his last three games. Greene is beginning to percolate after a very nondescript rookie showing a year ago. The former top prospect has raised all of his hitting averages from that campaign, and he's now up to .296/.349/.432 on the season. Greene also has four round trippers, 16 RBI, and five stolen bags in 2023. The 2019 fifth-overall pick is starting to see his dynasty stock in fantasy boom, too, while hitting .418/.458/.636 in 55 at-bats during May. He should be owned in most redraft leagues at this point as well.
May 20 · Source via
Tarik Skubal To Throw Another Session Saturday
Detroit Tigers left-hander Tarik Skubal (elbow) will throw in the bullpen at Nationals Park on Saturday. This will mark the seventh rehab session for the 26-year-old since undergoing flexor tendon surgery in August. Skubal finished the 2022 season with a 7-8 record in 21 starts. He also had a 3.52 ERA and 117 strikeouts. Although nobody knows how long he'll remain out, category managers should watch his progress, especially those looking for strikeouts in deeper fantasy setups.
May 19 · Source via
Freddy Pacheco Experiences A Setback
Detroit Tigers reliever Freddy Pacheco (elbow) experienced right elbow soreness after Friday's bullpen session. The 25-year-old, who was claimed off waivers a few months ago, currently resides on the 60-day injured list. Although he was progressing, it appears the latest setback may keep him out longer than anticipated. However, considering Pacheco hasn't done anything all year, the latest update won't negatively impact fantasy managers.
May 19 · Source via
Colt Keith Hits For Cycle As Part Of Six-Hit Effort Tuesday
Detroit Tigers infield prospect Colt Keith enjoyed a massive night on Tuesday as part of the Erie Seawolves' 18-8 rout of the Harrisburg Senators. Keith hit for the cycle but also clubbed a pair of home runs while collecting six hits on the evening. He began his night with a homer to deep right-center field and homered again in the fourth down the right-field line with a three-RBI triple sandwiched in between. He added a fifth-inning double and finished off his evening with singles in both the seventh and eighth innings. The Tigers' No. 2 prospect, according to MLB Pipeline, knocked in seven runs and scored three of his own in one of the best performances you will see at the plate this year, whether it be in the minors or majors.
May 17 · Source via
Tigers Claim Seth Elledge From Mets
The Tigers announced that they have claimed right-hander Seth Elledge off waivers from the Mets and optioned him to Triple-A Toledo. The Mets had designated him for assignment on the weekend. In order to open a spot for Elledge on their 40-man roster, the Tigers transferred right-hander Beau Brieske to the 60-day injured list. Elledge,…
May 16 · MLB Trade Rumors Detroit Tigers New York Mets Seth ElledgeMatt Vierling Resting Against Pirates

Detroit Tigers outfielder Matt Vierling is taking a day off on Tuesday against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Vierling has earned a spot on the Tigers bench by going 4-for-42 (.095) with a homer, two RBI and seven strikeouts in 11 games played so far in the month of May. The slump has dropped his season line to .220/.273/.317 with two home runs, 10 RBI and 10 runs scored in 132 plate appearances. Fantasy managers in AL-only leagues may want to follow the Tigers' lead and bench him. Zach McKinstry is getting the start in right field on Tuesday and is hitting leadoff against Pirates right-hander Luis L. Ortiz. In 33 games in his first year in Detroit, McKinstry is hitting .273 (24-for-88) with five doubles, two home runs, six RBI and five stolen bases.
May 16 · Source via
Justice Bigbie Producing Results In Single-A
Detroit Tigers first base prospect Justice Bigbie is a talented, hard-working player who was selected in the 19th round of the 2021 draft. He had put together an impressive career at Western Carolina and seems to be producing similar results through less than two seasons in the Tigers' system. The 24-year-old has shown flashes of increased power this season, all while posting his lowest strikeout rate since he was drafted. He has put the ball in play, reached base with ease, and shown a tendency to drive in runs. Defensively, Bigbie played all over the field in college, including outfield and both corner infield positions. While there's still plenty of time to find his long-term spot, it's looking like his future could be at first base. This past week was one to remember for Bigbie, who went 13-for-21 with two homers, nine RBI, four walks, and four strikeouts. Continue to keep tabs on Bigbie as he works his way through the minors.
May 16 · Source via
Alex Lange Completes Save Number Seven On Sunday

Detroit Tigers closer Alex Lange locked up his seventh save of the season on Sunday after pitching the ninth inning of the 5-3 win over the Seattle Mariners. He walked two but matched it with two punchouts and didn't allow a hit. Lange now owns a 1.06 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, and 33.8% strikeout rate this year over 17 innings. The 27-year-old won't be as dominant in the run prevention department for the whole season, considering his 3.48 xFIP, but fantasy managers can trust that the right-hander will provide value in four categories for the remainder of 2023 as the Tigers main arm out of the bullpen.
May 15 · Source via
Tigers Place Spencer Turnbull On 15-Day Injured List

The Tigers announced they’ve placed right hander Spencer Turnbull on the 15-day injured list retroactive to May 7 with neck discomfort. As Evan Woodbery of MLive explains, Turnbull had been optioned to Triple-A but this move means his option has been rescinded and he’ll spend time on major league IL. Had Turnbull reported the injury…
May 13 · MLB Trade Rumors Detroit Tigers Spencer TurnbullSpencer Turnbull Placed On 15-Day IL

Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Spencer Turnbull (neck) landed on the 15-day injured list on Saturday, retroactive to May 7. The right-hander hasn't had a good year thus far, amassing a 1-4 record with a 7.26 ERA (seven starts). As a result, he was recently optioned to Triple-A Toledo, although he'll now head to the IL instead. It's unknown what's exactly causing the neck discomfort. However, it's not good news for a guy who missed the 2022 season because of Tommy John surgery.
May 13 · Source via
Zach McKinstry Sticking In The Leadoff Spot

Detroit Tigers utility man Zach McKinstry is leading off on Saturday to take on Bryce Miller and the Seattle Mariners. The 28-year-old has now led off 12 of the past 16 games, and rightfully so, as he's slashing .280/.362/.415 with two homers, 13 runs, six RBI, and five stolen bases over 31 games. McKinstry has never been a fantasy option in his previous three seasons at the big-league level, but if he continues producing at the top of the order, he can be a sneaky waiver-wire option for fantasy managers in deep leagues due to his speed, average, and run scoring.
May 13 · Source via
Eduardo Rodriguez Once Again Dominant On Wednesday

Detroit Tigers pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez continued his white-hot stretch in a winning effort Wednesday versus the Cleveland Guardians. E-Rod tossed seven innings of shutout ball while allowing just four hits and two walks against eight strikeouts on the afternoon. Over his last six starts spanning 41 2/3 innings of work, Rodriguez has allowed just two earned runs with just six walks against 41 strikeouts in that time. He has also pitched at least seven innings in four of his last five starts, going 4-0 in that stretch. The left-hander lowered his ERA to a sparkling 1.57 figure as he takes aim at the Pittsburgh Pirates in his next scheduled start Wednesday at Comerica Park in Detroit.
May 10 · Source via
Michael Lorenzen Throws Seven Innings Of One-Run Ball

Detroit Tigers right-hander Michael Lorenzen allowed one run on five hits over seven innings of work in a 2-0 loss to the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday. Lorenzen struck out three and did not issue a walk in the outing. The veteran right-hander finished with a no-decision despite hurling his second straight quality start. Lorenzen is trending up of late, having allowed just two total runs over his past 14 innings, spanning two starts. He is worth a look as a potential waiver add considering how well he's been throwing the ball of late.
May 9 · Source via
Tigers Option Spencer Turnbull

The Tigers have optioned right-hander Spencer Turnbull to Triple-A Toledo and recalled right-hander Alex Faedo, per a team announcement. Faedo will start today’s game against the Cardinals. A second round pick in the 2014 draft, Turnbull made his MLB debut in 2019, struggling to a 6.06 ERA in 16 1/3 innings of work. He would…
May 7 · MLB Trade Rumors Detroit Tigers Spencer TurnbullTigers Plan To Activate Alex Faedo On Sunday
The Tigers plan to activate starter Alex Faedo off the injured list for tomorrow’s game against the Cardinals, per Chris McCosky of the Detroit News. More to come.
May 6 · MLB Trade Rumors Detroit Tigers Alex FaedoFreddy Pacheco Throws On Friday
Detroit Tigers reliever Freddy Pacheco (elbow) tossed a bullpen session on Friday, his first since sustaining a sprained right elbow before the beginning of the 2023 season. He is expected to throw again sometime next week. The Tigers claimed the 25-year-old off waivers from the Cardinals a few months ago. However, he's still a work in progress and should spend more time in the minors, so his value outside of dynasty leagues isn't high by any means. Yet, if the Tigers need relief bad enough, Pacheco may get the call.
May 6 · Source via
Kerry Carpenter To Commence Hitting This Weekend

Detroit Tigers outfielder Kerry Carpenter (shoulder) will begin hitting progression. The 25-year-old has a sprained right shoulder, an injury he picked up near the end of April. Carpenter had played relatively well before going down with the ailment, totaling 15 hits, eight RBI, eight runs, and four homers in 69 at-bats. It's hard to say for certain when he'll be back. However, it appears Carpenter could return sometime within the next week or two.
May 6 · Source via
Alex Faedo Will Be Activated On Sunday
Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Alex Faedo (hip) will be activated on Sunday. The right-hander finished last season with a 1-5 record (12 starts), amassing a 5.53 ERA with 44 strikeouts and 25 walks. Unfortunately, he underwent surgery in July, abruptly ending his rookie campaign. That said, while dynasty managers are glad to have Faedo back, it's unknown how much work he'll receive early on. As a result, the 27-year-old may not be an ideal fantasy option until he proves he can perform at a high level. The Tigers plan to announce a corresponding roster move after Saturday's game against the Cardinals.
May 6 · Source via
Tarik Skubal To Throw Another Pen Session Saturday
Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Tarik Skubal (elbow) will throw another bullpen session on Saturday. The 26-year-old remains on the IL after undergoing flexor tendon surgery in August. The lefty tossed a bullpen session on Sunday (all fastballs), so it appears he's moving in the right direction. Skubal had some quality outings in 2022 and finished the season with a 7-8 record (21 starts) and a 3.52 ERA. He also had 117 strikeouts while walking 32 batters. While he remains without a firm return date, fantasy managers should keep him in mind once he's active, especially those looking for K's.
May 6 · Source via
Alex Lange Notches Fifth Save

Detroit Tigers relief pitcher Alex Lange picked up his fifth save of the season on Thursday, finishing off a 2-0 shutout victory over the New York Mets. He struck out a pair and allowed just a single in his inning of work. Lange has been fantastic for the Tigers, turning in 11 straight scoreless outings and striking out 18 in 11 innings in those outings. All five of his saves have also come in that time, as he has been given more opportunities with the Tigers heating up a bit. He isn't likely to keep getting a ton of save chances, but he looks like a good bet to convert on them when he does get the opportunity. He should be owned wherever saves are valued.
May 5 · Source via
Eduardo Rodriguez Dominate Again Thursday

Detroit Tigers pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez had another phenomenal performance on Thursday against the New York Mets. He went eight innings and permitted just three base runners while striking out nine. Through seven starts, Rodriguez has a 1.81 ERA and 0.78 WHIP with three wins. Rodriguez missed the 2020 season after contracting Myocarditis and then struggled in 2021 and 2022, but has looked better than ever to start this year. He did have a 3.71 FIP before this start, so he's due for some regression. One thing Rodriguez has been doing great is limiting his walks, and if he can keep that up, he'll provide good numbers all year. He's still available in some leagues, so grab him and ride the hot streak.
May 4 · Source via
Alex Lange Secures Save No. 4

Detroit Tigers right-hander Alex Lange allowed one walk while striking out one over a scoreless inning to earn the save during Game 1 of Wednesday's 6-5 win over the New York Mets. He entered the ninth inning to protect a one-run lead. The 27-year-old tossed a scoreless inning to earn his fourth save of the season. He has now thrown 10 straight scoreless innings and hasn't allowed a run since April 9. Lange is 4-for-5 in save opportunities with a 1.32 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, and a 16:6 K: BB across 13 2/3 innings in 2023. Lange is Detroit's primary closer, and fantasy managers should continue to roll with him in all league formats.
May 4 · Source via
Andy Ibanez Bashes Three Hits

Andy Ibanez, designated hitter for the Detroit Tigers, had a standout outing in the second game of Wednesday's doubleheader against the New York Mets, bashing three hits. Despite appearing in both games, Ibanez found his rhythm during the night contest, driving in two runs and scoring one in the Tigers' 8-1 victory. Overall, he has a batting average of just .214 in 14 at-bats, but his solid game on Wednesday could earn him more playing time with Detroit as the season progresses.
May 4 · Source via
Miguel Cabrera Out With Illness Wednesday

Detroit Tigers designated hitter/first baseman Miguel Cabrera (illness) is out of the starting lineup for Game 1 of a doubleheader against the New York Mets on Wednesday due to an illness. It remains to be seen if the 40-year-old veteran slugger will return for the second game of the twin bill, but it's probably unlikely. With Miggy out in Game 1, Eric Haase is serving as the team's designated hitter and will bat cleanup against Mets left-hander Joey Lucchesi. Cabrera continues to struggle offensively in his final MLB season in 2023, as he's currently hitting only .189 (10-for-53) with three doubles, no home runs, three RBI and no runs scored in 15 games played.
May 3 · Source via
Tigers Sign Heath Hembree To Minor League Deal

The Tigers have signed right-hander Heath Hembree to a minor league deal, according to his transactions tracker at MLB.com. He elected free agency last week after being outrighted by the Rays. He’s been assigned to the Triple-A Toledo Mud Hens. This is the third relief pitcher the Tigers have added today, as they also signed…
May 1 · MLB Trade Rumors Detroit Tigers Heath HembreeTigers Claim Braden Bristo, Transfer Austin Meadows To 60-Day IL

5:05pm: The Tigers have announced the claim of Bristo, who has been optioned to Triple-A Toledo. The corresponding move is transferring outfielder Austin Meadows to the 60-day injured list. Meadows was placed on the 10-day IL due to anxiety on April 7 and will now be ineligible to return until 60 days from that point,…
May 1 · MLB Trade Rumors Tampa Bay Rays Detroit Tigers Braden Bristo Javy Guerra Austin MeadowsTigers Sign Sam Clay To Minor League Deal
The Tigers have signed left-hander Sam Clay to a minor league deal, according to his transactions tracker at MLB.com. He had signed a minors deal with the Diamondbacks in the offseason but was released, per the tracker. Clay, 30 in June, has a bit of major league experience on his ledger to this point in…
May 1 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Detroit Tigers Sam Clay