Tigers lose 2 outfielders in first 2 innings Sunday
DETROIT -- Detroit Tigers outfielder Austin Meadows returned to the lineup on Sunday after missing the last two days with symptoms of vertigo. Meadows played just one inning before being replaced by Willi Castro to start the second. In the bottom of the second inning, Tigers outfielder Victor Reyes ripped a potential triple into the right-field corner. Reyes was replaced by pinch-runner Derek Hill, who stole third base and then scored the Tigers’ second run on an RBI single by Harold Castro. The Tigers’ new outfield alignment after the two substitutions: Willi Castro in left, Hill in center and Robbie Grossman in right.
mlive.comTigers hit 2 solo home runs to win 2nd straight over Orioles
DETROIT -- Eric Haase and Willi Castro hit solo home runs as the Detroit Tigers beat the Baltimore Orioles 3-0 Saturday afternoon at Comerica Park. The Tigers scored in the second when Jonathan Schoop doubled, advanced to third on an error and then scored on Castro’s sacrifice fly. Haase hit his second homer of the season and first since Opening Day off Orioles starter Bruce Zimmermann in the fifth inning. pic.twitter.com/383T2RZtLE — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) May 14, 2022Detroit pitchers were aided by four double plays, although the Tigers infield also had two errors (a throwing error on Javier Baez and fielding error on Jeimer Candelario) and could have easily been charged with one more. Tigers closer Gregory Soto, who hit two batters and issued a walk on Friday night, was back on the mound Saturday.
mlive.comTigers lineup: Willi Castro starting 5th straight game
DETROIT -- Willi Castro will get his fifth consecutive start in the outfield when the Detroit Tigers open a three-game series with the Baltimore Orioles on Friday night at Comerica Park. The Tigers (9-23) have lost 16 of their last 19 games and are one loss away from matching last season’s 9-24 start. Here's how we line up for the series opener vs. the Orioles. pic.twitter.com/iiah4Ss9M3 — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) May 13, 2022Outfielder Austin Meadows, infielder Harold Castro and catcher Eric Haase will be available off the bench. On the mound, Detroit lefty Eduardo Rodriguez (0-2, 4.50 ERA) will seek his first win as a member of the Tigers against Orioles right-hander Jordan Lyles (2-2, 4.05).
mlive.comTigers lineup: Willi Castro starting in left field
Willi Castro will start in left field for the Detroit Tigers as they face the Oakland Athletics at 7:10 p.m. at Comerica Park. On the season he’s hitting .231 with a .632 OPS (96 OPS+). He’s hitting .344 (11-for-32) on the season. Tigers lefty Joey Wentz will make his Major League debut on Wednesday against A’s lefty Zach Logue (1-1, 2.84 ERA). On Tuesday, A’s starter Adrian Martinez (making his first MLB start) defeated Alex Faedo (making his second career start).
mlive.comTigers will be road team in Detroit for Game 1 of doubleheader
DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers will bat first in the opener of a traditional doubleheader against the Oakland Athletics on Tuesday afternoon. The only practical difference is that Oakland will get the last at-bat, just as if they were the home team. Willi Castro, who will start in left field in the opener, will make his career debut as a center fielder in Game 2, Hinch said. pic.twitter.com/n6iQ8GOd0f — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) May 10, 2022Tigers lefty Tarik Skubal (1-2, 3.04 ERA) will face Oakland right-hander Frankie Montas (2-2, 3.44) in Game 1. The second game, which will start about 40 minutes after the conclusion of the first, will be the second big-league start for Tigers right-hander Alex Faedo, while A’s right-hander Adrian Martinez will make his Major League debut.
mlive.comTigers lineup: Derek Hill, Willi Castro get outfield starts
HOUSTON -- Center fielder Derek Hill will lead off for the Detroit Tigers on Saturday afternoon at Minute Maid Park. The Tigers (8-17) will face the Houston Astros (16-11) at 4:05 p.m. in the third of a four-game series. He’s sitting out again on Saturday, although that could be due to the Astros’ starter, tough lefty Framber Valdez. pic.twitter.com/BIcpf3EroB — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) May 7, 2022Willi Castro, who filled in for Meadows on Friday, is back in left field for a second consecutive start. Tigers lefty Eduardo Rodriguez (0-2, 5.33 ERA) will start against Valdez (1-2, 3.42).
mlive.comAstros’ back-to-back home runs send Tigers to another loss
The Tigers endured another one-run loss Friday, falling to the Houston Astros 3-2 in front of 38,020 fans at Minute Maid Park. The Tigers (8-17) have lost 10 of their last 12 games, including the first two of this four-game series against the Astros (16-11). The next two Astros -- Chaz McCormick and Martin Maldonado -- blasted home runs, giving the Astros a lead they would hold for the rest of the game. Astros starter Luis Garcia was never in danger after the early innings. Box scoreUp nextThe Tigers and Astros play the third of a four-game series on Saturday at 4:05 p.m. Eastern time.
mlive.comTigers lineup: Miguel Cabrera won’t start Game 1 of doubleheader
DETROIT -- Willi Castro will start in left field and Austin Meadows will serve as the designated hitter in Game 1 of the Detroit Tigers traditional doubleheader against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The first game will start at 1:10 p.m. at Comerica Park. Miguel Cabrera will be on the bench in the opener and presumably start in Game 2. pic.twitter.com/Wn5SEDmijJ — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) May 4, 2022Right-hander Michael Pineda will be on the mound for the Tigers in the opener. In Game 1, Cabrera, catcher Eric Haase, infielder Harold Castro and outfielder Derek Hill will be available off the bench.
mlive.comTigers lineup: Robbie Grossman back after getting hit by pitch on Sunday
DETROIT -- Robbie Grossman is back in the lineup after leaving Sunday’s game with a right hand contusion. Grossman was hit by a pitch in the second inning and left the game a few minutes later. Grossman will lead off on Tuesday as the Tigers (7-14) open a brief two-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates (9-13) at Comerica Park. The first pitch is 7:10 p.m., although the area has been doused by steady rain all afternoon. Tigers right-hander Michael Pineda (1-1, 3.60 ERA) will face Bucs right-hander Bryse Wilson (0-0, 4.70).
mlive.comTigers lineup: 2 slumping sluggers moved down in batting order
MINNEAPOLIS -- Slumping Detroit Tigers sluggers Jeimer Candelario and Jonathan Schoop are being bumped down in the lineup. Schoop is hitting just .155 (9-for-58) with a .451 OPS (36 OPS+), three walks and 10 strikeouts. Candelario is hitting .158 (9-for-57) with a .436 OPS (35 OPS+), five walks, 15 strikeouts. pic.twitter.com/pi2jLHqzvc — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) April 26, 2022Candelario has hit in the cleanup spot for much of the season, while Schoop has hit no longer than sixth. Tigers lefty Eduardo Rodriguez will face Twins right-hander Chris Paddack on the mound.
mlive.comTigers option another reliever to Toledo after Sunday’s game
DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers optioned right-handed reliever Rony Garcia to Triple-A Toledo following Sunday’s loss to the Colorado Rockies. The Tigers are expected to activate left-handed reliever Andrew Chafin, who pitched a scoreless inning on a rehab outing with Triple-A Toledo on Sunday. If the Tigers activate Chafin on Tuesday, they will have a 28-man roster made up of 14 position players and 14 pitchers. The rosters will be sliced down to 26 -- 13 position players and 13 pitchers -- on May 2. Infielders (9): Javier Báez, Miguel Cabrera, Jeimer Candelario, Harold Castro, Willi Castro, Kody Clemens, Jonathan Schoop, Zack Short, Spencer Torkelson.
mlive.comTigers lineup: Miguel Cabrera batting third in Game 1 of doubleheader
Miguel Cabrera will definitely be coming to the plate in the first inning. Cabrera will be batting third when the Detroit Tigers (5-7) face the Colorado Rockies (8-4) in Game 1 of a doubleheader Saturday at Comerica Park. The first game starts at 1:10 p.m. Game 2 is 6:40 p.m.Cabrera is at 2,999 hits, one shy of one one of baseball’s most important milestones. pic.twitter.com/K6eZVpeIlU — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) April 23, 2022Harold Castro will start at shortstop, which could be an indication that Javier Baez (thumb) won’t be activated until Sunday. Catcher/outfielder Eric Haase, catcher Dustin Garneau, infielder Willi Castro and outfielder Derek Hill will be available off the bench for the Tigers in the opener.
mlive.comTigers lineup: Harold Castro back at short Wednesday against Yankees
DETROIT -- Harold Castro will be back at shortstop for the Detroit Tigers as they try to bounce back from a series-opening loss. The Tigers (4-6) face the New York Yankees (6-5) on Wednesday at 6:40 p.m. at Comerica Park. Willi Castro (no relation) started for the Tigers on Tuesday night, a 4-2 loss to the Yankees. pic.twitter.com/fR76gsaIx1 — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) April 20, 2022Victor Reyes will get the start in center field, taking the place of Akil Baddoo. In addition to Baddoo and Willi Castro, catcher/outfielder Eric Haase, catcher Dustin Garneau and outfielder Daz Cameron will be available off the bench.
mlive.comTigers’ Willi Castro, last player cut at end of spring, back in Detroit to show he belongs
Castro, who turns 25 this week, began last season as the Tigers’ everyday shortstop but has since been forced to rebrand himself as a utility man. The Tigers recalled Castro from Toledo on Sunday to take the spot of Javier Baez, who was placed on the 10-day injured list with a swollen thumb. Between spring training and Triple-A Toledo, he’s played just about every position on the diamond. “I think if you asked Willi to run out to his favorite position, he’s going to pick shortstop,” Hinch said at the end of spring training. “And once we determined that he didn’t quite have the same hand strength that he needed to have to compete, we needed to put him on the injured list.”
mlive.comTigers lineup: Willi Castro making 2022 debut against Yankees
DETROIT -- Willi Castro will make his first start of the season for the Detroit Tigers as they open a three-game series against the New York Yankees on Tuesday night at Comerica Park. But Sunday’s game in Kansas City was postponed due to rain and Castro never played. pic.twitter.com/TyGITM5J7H — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) April 19, 2022Tigers lefty Tyler Alexander, who was originally slated to start on Sunday, will now start tonight. Castro, who turns 25 this week, began last season as the Tigers’ everyday shortstop but soon lost that role due to concerns about his defense. Castro played in 125 games last year, hitting .220 with a .624 OPS (72 OPS+) in 450 plate appearances.
mlive.comShould Tigers promote someone else to replace Javier Baez? 6 takeaways from a busy weekend
DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers’ first road trip of the season ended with a rainout in Kansas City that probably could have been played if the Royals had insisted on being cruel. Willi Castro drove down from Des Moines, Iowa, where the Triple-A Toledo Mud Hens were playing, and was activated on Sunday. Going from Baez to Harold Castro (or Willi Castro) is a huge drop-off offensively and defensively. The Tigers at least considered bringing Ryan Kreidler to the big leagues before ultimately settling on promoting Willi Castro. Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Tyler Alexander throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Boston Red Sox, Tuesday, April 12, 2022, in Detroit.
mlive.comTigers call up replacement after Javier Baez goes on injured list
-- The Detroit Tigers have recalled infielder Willi Castro from Triple-A Toledo to replaced injured shortstop Javier Baez. Baez was placed on the 10-day injured list before Saturday’s game with a swollen right thumb. Because the transaction was made retroactive to April 13, Baez will be able to return as early as April 23. Infielders (9): Javier Báez*, Miguel Cabrera, Jeimer Candelario, Harold Castro, Willi Castro, Kody Clemens, Jonathan Schoop, Zack Short, Spencer Torkelson. Catcher Jake Rogers (right elbow sprain); and right-handed pitchers Jose Cisnero (right shoulder sprain) and Spencer Turnbull (right elbow sprain) are on the 60-day injured list, which removes them from the 40-man roster.
mlive.comTigers place Javier Baez on injured list; replacement en route from Mud Hens?
-- The Detroit Tigers placed shortstop Javier Baez on the 10-day injured list Saturday after several fruitless days of waiting for his swollen right thumb to heal. Hinch said earlier Saturday that the Tigers would wait until Tuesday to decide whether to place Baez on the injured list. Baez said he jammed his right thumb in the scrum that accompanied the delayed celebration following his walk-off hit a week ago in Detroit. Infielders (9): Javier Báez*, Miguel Cabrera, Jeimer Candelario, Harold Castro, Willi Castro, Kody Clemens, Jonathan Schoop, Zack Short, Spencer Torkelson. * On the 10-day injured list.
mlive.comWhere are they now? A look back at Tigers’ Opening Day roster from last year
Hinch’s first Detroit Tigers’ team won’t be on his second. A dozen players from last year’s Opening Day roster are still here in 2022. Year-to-year roster turnover is normal in baseball, so the Tigers’ changes aren’t exceptional. Here’s a look at last year’s Opening Day roster and where they are today:On Tigers’ 2022 Opening Day roster (12): Miguel Cabrera, Jeimer Candelario, Harold Castro, Jonathan Schoop, Akil Baddoo, Robbie Grossman, Victor Reyes, Tarik Skubal, Casey Mize, Gregory Soto, Michael Fulmer, Tyler Alexander. RELATED: How the 2022 Tigers’ roster was built: Where they’re from and how they got here
mlive.comTigers make flurry of moves to set Opening Day roster
The Detroit Tigers set their Opening Day roster on Wednesday with a series of moves, the most significant of which involved an injury to reliable veteran reliever Jose Cisnero. Cisnero was placed on the 60-day injured list with a right shoulder strain although he had pitched in spring training as recently as Sunday. To accommodate the addition of Torkelson, Vest, Hutchison and Barnes to the 40-man roster, the Tigers place three players on the 60-day injured list. * On the 10-day injured list. Two late-arriving pitchers -- Michael Pineda and Wily Peralta -- are getting work in Toledo and Lakeland, respectively.
mlive.comTigers tell 3 non-roster relievers they’ve made Opening Day roster
TAMPA, Fla. -- The Detroit TIgers have given good news to three non-roster players. The moves didn’t completely clear up the final roster, however, as Hinch also hinted at unreported injuries that could affect the final roster. The final decision could conceivably come down to Rodriguez or Castro, depending on whether the Tigers want to have 14 or 15 pitchers on the initial 28-man roster. Two of the three non-roster players have ties to the Tigers organization before this spring. Hutchison, a 31-year-old native of Lakeland, made nine appearances for the Tigers in 2021, including two starts.
mlive.comTigers’ Harold Castro officially makes team, others remain in limbo
CLEARWATER, Fla. -- Did anyone doubt for a second that utility man Harold Castro would find a way onto the team? Hinch confirmed Sunday that “Hittin’ Harold” would be on the Tigers’ Opening Day roster. Willi Castro appears to have a safe spot, but it’s not yet official. Harold Castro, IF (L)3. He looked like Michael Pineda,” Hinch said.
mlive.comWhat does Tigers’ outfield look like after injuries to Riley Greene, Derek Hill?
LAKELAND, Fla. -- The crushing news that Detroit Tigers rookie outfielder Riley Greene would miss the start of the season after breaking his foot could have created a huge opportunity for fellow center fielder Derek Hill. Hinch announced Saturday that Hill would not be ready for the start of the season after suffering a low-grade hamstring strain. Hill, 26, was the Tigers’ first-round pick in 2014 and is known for his speed and outfield defense. Now it appears the Tigers will head north with only three true outfielders: Reyes, Akil Baddoo and Robbie Grossman. Six pitchers left for five spots: Jason Foley, Rony Garcia, Will Vest, Drew Hutchison, Jacob Barnes, Chase Anderson.
mlive.comTigers place Victor Reyes on IL, ending his season; rookie shortstop recalled
DETROIT -- Detroit Tigers outfielder Victor Reyes won’t play again in 2021. Reyes, who left Saturday’s game with right groin tightness, was placed on the 10-day injured list Sunday. After a miserable start to the season and an extended stretch in Toledo, Reyes was recalled on July 17. He finishes the season with a .701 OPS (93 OPS+) with 10 doubles, four triples and five homers in 220 plate appearances. Reyes’ departure means the Tigers will only have three true outfielders on the roster: Akil Baddoo, Robbie Grossman and Daz Cameron.
mlive.comTigers mailbag: Should Tigers stand pat at catcher or acquire someone new?
DETROIT -- Detroit Tigers catcher Eric Haase has hit a lot of home runs. Yes, the Tigers could stand pat, but I don’t think they will. If the Tigers don’t bring back Greiner and/or Garneau, they will surely sign someone with a similar profile to provide minor-league depth. Detroit Tigers reliever Michael Fulmer (32) throws a pitch during their MLB game against the Cleveland Indians at Comerica Park in Detroit, on Saturday, August 14, 2021. Matt Manning will probably end up their too, but I don’t think they’re going to hand him a job on a silver platter.
mlive.comAfter Miguel Cabrera hits No. 500, Tigers fight back to beat Jays in 11 innings
The Tigers’ rally appeared to fizzle in the ninth after Willi Castro smacked a two-out ground-rule double. Pinch-hitter Harold Castro hit a routine grounder to second base. Marcus Semien, considered among the league’s best infielders, bounced a throw to first base, allowing Harold Castro to reach base and Willi Castro to score. The Tigers went up 3-2 after Jonathan Schoop’s sacrifice fly drove home Zack Short in the top of the 10th. The Tigers picked up two runs in the top of the 11th when Daz Cameron doubled and Willi Castro followed with another double of his own.
mlive.comDetroit Tigers had shortstop problem way before Zack Short -- we all know what they have to do to fix it
Zack Short had a really, really bad game Sunday in Cleveland, dooming the Detroit Tigers with a couple of critical errors. The fan base lost its collective mind over his struggles, but in reality, the team has much bigger problems at shortstop.
Niko Goodrum is coming back, which means it’s decision time for Tigers
CLEVELAND -- The Detroit Tigers will have a tough decision to make after Sunday’s game. Niko Goodrum has completed his rehab assignment and will join the Tigers when they open a three-gam series at Baltimore on Tuesday. If there was any talk of Goodrum being the odd man out, the Tigers never shared it publicly. Looking ahead: Miguel Cabrera is off on Sunday, which he means he’s very likely to go to Baltimore still at 498 home runs. After three games at Baltimore, the Tigers return to Detroit for a six-game homestand beginning Aug. 13, so there remains a good shot that he will reach 500 home runs at Comerica Park.
mlive.comTigers mailbag: Where does Willi Castro fit in future plans?
CLEVELAND -- By the time you’re reading this, Willi Castro might be back in Toledo. The Tigers have a series of decisions to make in the coming days as players return from injuries. Q: For the life of me, I cannot understand what the Tigers’ front office sees in Willi Castro. Castro hasn’t yet burned his final option year, so he could be insurance for the Tigers in Toledo next year. If the Tigers were being frugal, it could be argued that Boyd is a borderline non-tender candidate, not an extension candidate.
mlive.comTigers load bases in 9th (again), but fall to Orioles
Haase hit a solo home run to left field in the fourth inning off Orioles starter John Means. pic.twitter.com/LRFw1gfhLm — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) July 31, 2021Other than that, Means had few problems in six innings of work, allowing just four hits and one walk, while striking out six. Tigers starter Matt Manning got into trouble in the sixth inning, walking two batters to load the bases with one out. The Tigers loaded the bases in the bottom of the ninth inning when Orioles reliever Tanner Scott walked two batters and hit another. Up next: The Tigers and Orioles wrap up their four-game series on Sunday at 1:10 p.m. Tigers lefty Tyler Alexander (1-1 4.80 ERA) will face Baltimore right-hander Spenser Watkins (2-1, 3.10).
mlive.comTigers sweep Rangers, now have their longest win streak since 2016
DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers may be playing their best baseball in years. It’s the Tigers’ longest win streak since they won eight games between July 25 and Aug. 3, 2016. The Tigers have also tied their win total from 2019, the last full season of Major League Baseball. pic.twitter.com/aIr65Bj8R2 — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) July 22, 2021The Tigers added another run in the second when Willi Castro tripled and scored. pic.twitter.com/J3a7fACrUB — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) July 22, 2021Tigers starter Tyler Alexander pitched into the fourth, allowing just one earned run.
mlive.comInjury to Isaac Paredes prompts Tigers to make another infield swap
DETROIT -- Isaac Paredes was tentatively written into the starting lineup on Wednesday night, but first had to pass a battery of on-field tests to show that his sore hip was feeling better. Paredes was scratched from the lineup on Wednesday and then placed on the 10-day injured list on Thursday with a right hip strain. The Tigers recalled infielder Willi Castro from Triple-A Toledo to replace Paredes on the roster. TIGERS’ 40-MAN ROSTER (39)Players in bold are on the 26-man active roster. Infielders (8): Miguel Cabrera, Jeimer Candelario, Harold Castro, Willi Castro, Niko Goodrum*, Isaac Paredes*, Jonathan Schoop, Zack Short.
mlive.comWhat’s next for Willi Castro? Tigers haven’t given up on him.
With Castro, the Tigers are hopeful that his detour to Toledo is only a temporary setback. Castro, 24, was perhaps the Tigers’ best hitter during a shortened 2020 season, posting a .349 average and .932 OPS in 140 plate appearances. But we’ve seen progress at second base and we want to continue to see that as well. To be clear, our best team has him as a viable member of the Major League club.”Hinch said Castro will continue playing primarily second base in Toledo. “I’m not going to make any firm commitments until we see things play out on the field a little bit more,” Hinch said.
mlive.comTigers make 2 big moves to start 2nd half of season
DETROIT -- The Detroit Tigers have sent struggling infielder Willi Castro and cut ties -- likely permanently -- with veteran outfielder Nomar Mazara. The two moves came just hours before the Tigers were set to open the second half of the season with a doubleheader against the Minnesota Twins at Comerica Park. To fill the two spots on the roster, the Tigers have recalled infielder Isaac Paredes and outfielder Derek Hill from Triple-A Toledo. Castro, 24, was perhaps the Tigers’ best hitter during a shortened 2020 season, posting a .349 average and .932 OPS in 140 plate appearances. Infielders (8): Miguel Cabrera, Jeimer Candelario, Harold Castro, Willi Castro, Niko Goodrum, Isaac Paredes, Jonathan Schoop, Zack Short.
mlive.comTime for Tigers to make tough decision on Willi Castro?
“Willi was trying to hurry and come off the base early and got caught,” said Tigers manager A.J. Not because anyone expects the Tigers to make a push for the playoffs, but because the pitching staff deserves better. Although he’s played primarily first base this season, Schoop has spent most of his career at second base. Isaac Paredes has played second and shortstop during a couple of brief stints with the Tigers. This year, he’s at a league-worst -13 DRS in 567 innings (-2 at shortstop and -11 at second base).
mlive.comAstros load bases in 6 different innings, rout Tigers, 12-3
DETROIT -- The red-hot Houston Astros got 18 hits, reached base 27 times, loaded the bases in six innings and steamrolled the Detroit Tigers 12-3 in the opener of a four-game series Thursday night at Comerica Park. The Astros (47-28) have won 11 games in a row, while the Tigers (32-43) snapped a three-game win streak. But second baseman Willi Castro also committed two errors and a base hit bounced off the glove of Willi Castro. Incredibly, the Astros loaded the bases in the second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth innings. Up next: The Tigers and Astros meet again on Friday at 7:10 p.m. Tigers right-hander Wily Peralta (0-1, 7.11 ERA) will face Astros left-hander Framber Valdez (4-0, 1.67).
mlive.comWilli Castro, wild pitches spur Tigers’ 6-5 win to sweep Royals
Willi Castro hit a two-run homer and the Detroit Tigers capitalized on two wild pitches as they rallied to beat the Kansas City Royals 6-5 on Wednesday afternoon at Kauffman Stadium. Royals starter Brady Singer left after just three innings with shoulder tightness and reliever Carlos Hernandez held the Tigers’ in check through three scoreless innings. Niko Goodrum drew a leadoff walk and Willi Castro followed with a mammoth 421-foot homer to tie the game at 3. After a couple of singles, Robbie Grossman landed on third, where he scored easily on Barlow’s wild pitch to take the lead. pic.twitter.com/94cEuQbrGg — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) June 16, 2021Tigers starter Tarik Skubal allowed three runs in six innings.
mlive.comTigers are on pace for exactly 100 losses: 3 ways things could improve, or get worse
But the first day of Memorial Day weekend -- and the Detroit Tigers’ series opener against the New York Yankees -- will feature cloudy skies, intermittent rain and 45 degrees. It was a reminder that while 50 games are already in the books, in many ways the season -- and the summer -- are still only beginning. Through 50 games, the Tigers are 19-31, which puts them on pace for a 62-100 record. (Allison Farrand / Detroit Tigers) (used with permission)Allison Farrand1. (Allison Farrand / Detroit Tigers) (used with permission)Allison Farrand2.
mlive.comTigers lineup: Eric Haase starting in left field, Wilson Ramos at DH
Catcher Eric Haase will make his first start in left field tonight in Seattle. Wilson Ramos, newly returned from the injured list, will start at designated hitter. This is the Tigers’ 41st game and, as you might expect with Haase in left field, their 41st different lineup. pic.twitter.com/eXBESgDkW9 — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) May 17, 2021With a lefty on the mound for the M’s, three Tigers’ left-handed hitters will be on the bench: Infielder Harold Castro and outfielders Nomar Mazara and Akil Baddoo. Second baseman Willi Castro, a switch-hitter, is also not in the starting lineup.
mlive.comTigers not bailing on Willi Castro: ‘He didn’t hit last season by accident’
The list of Detroit Tigers who aren’t struggling at the plate right now is fairly short, so it might seem to unfair to pick on Willi Castro. Not only has Castro struggled at the plate, he’s more or less forfeited his shortstop position due to poor defense. It was especially notable when utility man Harold Castro (no relation) started at shortstop on Thursday while Willi Castro started at second. Hinch said the decision wasn’t punitive; the Tigers simply want Willi Castro to get comfortable at second base. Offensively, Castro is hitting .191 in 99 plate appearances after hitting .349 in 140 plate appearances last season.
mlive.com‘Not a demotion’: A.J. Hinch says position swap will improve Tigers’ infield defense
Goodrum would have started at shortstop and Willi Castro at second base in Tuesday’s series opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Hinch said the change does not represent a demotion for Castro, who has struggled defensively at times. Instead, it’s an acknowledgment that Goodrum is an excellent defender and Castro has the ability to do something that Hinch has asked all the Tigers to do: Play more than one position. “You’re watching Niko play short and you see the the opportunity to have strong middle of the infield with Willi shifting over to second. “When I talked to him about playing second base, he had a great approach to it,” Hinch said.
mlive.comTigers’ infielders swap spots: Willi Castro starting at 2nd base if snow holds off tonight
DETROIT -- Detroit Tigers infielders Niko Goodrum and Willi Castro will switch spots on Tuesday night -- if the series opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates isn’t snowed out. Goodrum is starting at shortstop, while Castro is at second base. Goodrum began the 2020 season as the Tigers’ everyday shortstop, but was eventually unseated by Castro, who has played there almost exclusively since last August. The Tigers (6-10) play the Pirates (7-9) on Tuesday at 6:40 p.m. for the first of three games at Comerica Park. #DetroitRoots pic.twitter.com/t7iyFvL5xT — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) April 20, 2021Catcher Grayson Greiner, outfielder Akil Baddoo and infielder Harold Castro will be available off the bench.
mlive.comRanking 22 Detroit Tigers questions we can’t wait to learn the answers to this season
DETROIT – Even though a playoff race isn’t in the cards for the Detroit Tigers this season, there are plenty of reasons to be excited about this team ahead of Opening Day. READ: Meet all 26 members of the Tigers’ rosterWe came up with 22 questions we can’t wait to learn the answers to over the coming months. Nobody knew who he was when the Tigers selected him in the Rule 5 draft, mostly because he missed the entire 2020 season and hasn’t played above High-A ball. An underrated part of the shortened 2020 season was Soto’s hot start. Daniel Norris #44 of the Detroit Tigers delivers a pitch against the Minnesota Twins during the game at Target Field on September 22, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
New starting lineup prediction after Detroit Tigers sent Isaac Paredes to Triple A
DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers sent prospect Isaac Paredes to minor league camp this week, scrambling the starting infield with Opening Day less than a week away. Robbie Grossman, LFSpring stats: .243/.364/.486 (.850 OPS), 2 HR, 3 doubles, 6 walks, 11 strikeouts in 37 at-bats. AdSince the day the Tigers signed Grossman, he’s felt like the best fit atop the lineup. Well, this spring he’s strengthened that case with a .364 on-base percentage. 8 slot behind Wilson Ramos, but so far this spring, Hinch has had him above the catcher in the lineup.
Predicting all 26 players who will make the Detroit Tigers’ Opening Day roster
C Wilson RamosConfidence: LockRole: Starting catcherThere’s a legitimate three-way battle to back up Ramos, but everyone knows who the starter will be. AdSS Willi CastroConfidence: LockRole: Starting shortstopThere are going to be some defensive miscues, especially on the throw. As a result, the Tigers will have an extra roster spot to play with -- that’s why there will be 27 names on this list. He bet on himself and won, allowing just three runs while striking out 15 batters in 11 spring innings. If we’re being honest, a conversation about Baddoo as a starter feels more justified than a conversation about earning a roster spot.
Padres star Tatis has shoulder problem, to be re-evaluated
The Padres said Tatis had discomfort in his non-throwing left shoulder and would be re-evaluated on Wednesday. Corbin Burnes turned in 4 2/3 innings, striking out six while allowing two runs on three hits. Jon Lester allowed one run and three hits in 3 2/3 innings in his second start of the spring for Washington. He gave up five hits, hit two batters and struck out three. PADRES 5, REDS 4MacKenzie Gore worked 3 2/3 innings in his third start for San Diego, allowing two runs on three hits.
Now in Chisox 'pen, Kopech makes debut after 2020 opt-out
TWINS 1, ORIOLES 0 (7 INNINGS)Minnesota ace Kenta Maeda allowed one hit in three innings, striking out four in his second start. Baltimore's Dean Kremer fared better in his second start, allowing a hit and a walk in three scoreless innings. Deivi García pitched three shutout innings in his second start for the Yankees. Nick Pivetta made his second start for Boston, allowing a run on three hits with three strikeouts in three innings. Alex Wood worked two innings in the start for San Francisco and gave up a home run to Omar Narvaez.
Yanks' Britton needs surgery to remove elbow bone chip
FILE - New York Yankees relief pitcher Zack Britton winds up during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles in New York, in this Sunday, Sept. 13, 2020, file photo. Yankees left-hander Zack Britton is not throwing because of a sore pitching elbow, was to be examined by a doctor on Tuesday, March 9, 2021, and could miss the start of the season. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens, File)LAKELAND, Fla. – New York Yankees left-hander Zack Britton needs surgery to remove a bone chip from his pitching elbow and seems certain to miss the start of the season. Yankees manager Aaron Boone announced the need for an operation following New York's 6-5 loss to Detroit on Tuesday. Boone said Britton felt soreness Sunday night following a bullpen session and had an MRI of his elbow on Monday.
Twins newcomer Happ back on mound after positive virus test
The two-time AL Central champion Twins are hoping Happ can give them a veteran presence at the back of their rotation. Ian Anderson pitched two scoreless innings, allowing three hits and a walk. Houston piggy-backed a pair of starters with Framber Valdez yielding McNeil's homer in the first two innings, striking out two. AdBLUE JAYS 4, PHILLIES 2 (6)Steven Matz allowed a hit in two scoreless innings, striking out three without a walk. CUBS 3, ROYALS 2 (7)Outfielder Rafael Ortega, who signed a minor league deal with Chicago after playing 34 games for Atlanta last season, hit a bases-loaded triple.
How to watch Detroit Tigers spring training game vs. Yankees this afternoon
DETROIT – On Monday, it will be possible to watch a Detroit Tigers game for the first time this season without actually being inside the stadium. When the Tigers take on the New York Yankees at 1:10 p.m. Monday inside Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Florida, the game will be streamed live on MLB.TV. (2021 Getty Images)Jeimer Candelario, who had a single, a walk and a double in Sunday’s game against the Philadelphia Phillies, is batting second. pic.twitter.com/8lgeU86Mx1 — Tigers PR (@DetroitTigersPR) March 1, 2021In their first spring training game Sunday, the Tigers ambushed the Phillies, scoring six runs in the bottom of the first inning and eventually winning 10-2. Just like in the first spring training game, Monday’s contest is expected to last seven innings.
Spring games begin with fans, new faces, moment for Mancini
AdJazz Chisholm of the Marlins and Adam Haseley of the Phillies did even better — they led off games with home runs. Mancini took off his helmet to acknowledge a standing ovation that included the fans, the Orioles and the Pirates. Marco Gonzales made his first spring start for Seattle, allowing two hits and an unearned run in two innings. Center fielder Trent Grisham, coming off his first Gold Glove last season, doubled and scored a run for San Diego. Top prospect Jeter Downs had a two-run home run and RBI single, while Michael Chavis hit a solo shot.
5 possible Detroit Tigers starting lineups that include 3 new free agent signings
DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers made a trio of free agent signings over the last month to fill holes in the everyday lineup, but there are still many questions about the starting nine. Cron at first base, Schoop at second base, Jeimer Candelario at third base and Niko Goodrum at shortstop. AdOf his 50 games started last season, Reyes hit leadoff in 34 of them. Isaac Paredes #19 of the Detroit Tigers bats during the Detroit Tigers Summer Workouts at Comerica Park on July 18, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. Whether that means he’ll get chances at first base, third base or elsewhere remains to be seen.
Dream lineup for Detroit Tigers to be contenders next year: 3 free agents, 3 prospects, 3 regulars
DETROIT – Going into 2021, the Detroit Tigers have exciting prospects, money to spend and a handful of solid players on their roster. Here are three free agents they could add to three prospects and three familiar faces to create a starting lineup capable of competing next season. (2020 Getty Images)If the Tigers could only pursue one free agent this offseason, it should be J.T. If the Tigers field this type of lineup, he shouldn’t be guaranteed his old spot in the No. Suggested lineupIf the Tigers made these three signings and called up Greene, here’s what the theoretical lineup could look like on Opening Day:D.J.
10 positives to take away from Detroit Tigers season when looking toward future
DETROIT – As ugly as the final 25 games were for the Detroit Tigers, the shortened 2020 season went about as well as anyone could have hoped. Candelario finished the season in a 1-23 slump with six walks and 10 strikeouts, then landed on the 10-day injured list. But overall, his .297/.369/.503 season is much closer to what the Tigers hoped he would become. Willi Castro #49 of the Detroit Tigers celebrates with Daz Cameron #41 after a 5-2 win over the Cleveland Indians at Comerica Park on September 19, 2020, in Detroit, Michigan. Gregory Soto #65 of the Detroit Tigers pitches during the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Comerica Park on July 31, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan.
Tigers lose to Indians at Comerica Park
DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers lost to the Cleveland Indians at Comerica Park Sunday. The first game -- also against the Indians -- was won by the Tigers Saturday. Carlos Carrasco allowed one hit in seven scoreless innings, and Jose Ramirez homered twice to lift the Cleveland Indians to a 7-4 victory over the Detroit Tigers on Sunday. Matthew Boyd (2-7) was perfect through four innings for the Tigers, but the Indians scored three runs in the fifth. The Indians took the lead on Jordan Luplow’s RBI single, and Delino DeShields added a two-run single that inning.
Tigers manager Gardenhire announces immediate retirement
A Comerica Park videoboard displays a thank you message to Detroit Tigers manager Ron Gardenhire, who announced his retirement prior to a baseball game against the Cleveland Indians, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2020, in Detroit. This year was taking more of a toll on the 62-year-old Detroit Tigers manager than he'd necessarily let on. General manager Al Avila said he made a routine visit to Gardenhire’s office Saturday, when the manager told him about the decision. “On behalf of all of us with the Detroit Tigers, congratulations to Ron Gardenhire on a tremendous managerial career,” Tigers CEO Christopher Ilitch said in a statement. “Always, you'll miss baseball,” Gardenhire said.
Ranking the 10 current Detroit Tigers players most likely to be part of team’s long-term future
DETROIT – Let’s face it: The Detroit Tigers' slim playoff hopes died over the weekend when they lost all three games to the Chicago White Sox. Here’s a look at the top 10 players on the current roster, ranked based on how likely they are to be part of the team’s long-term future. While he’s playing right field this season, Cameron’s future is likely in center, where he can utilize his speed. Detroit Tigers pitcher Spencer Turnbull throws against the Chicago Cubs in the second inning of a baseball game in Detroit, Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2020. 3 on this list: He’s only under team control for three more years and he needs to show this shortened season isn’t a fluke.
Brewers hit 5 homers and 8 doubles, pound Tigers 19-0
DETROIT Corbin Burnes allowed one hit in seven innings in another outstanding performance, and the Milwaukee Brewers slugged their way to their highest run total in over a decade, beating the Detroit Tigers 19-0 on Wednesday. Milwaukee hit eight doubles in the game, setting a franchise record with 13 extra-base hits. The Brewers hit four doubles off Boyd in a three-run second inning. The Brewers hit four more doubles in the sixth, scoring five runs in the inning. TIGERS: The Tigers play a doubleheader at St. Louis on Thursday.
Heres how Detroit Tigers should shuffle starting lineup following JaCoby Jones injury
DETROIT Tuesday should have been a celebratory night for the Detroit Tigers. But it was also a costly one, because they lost starting center fielder JaCoby Jones for the rest of the season. But bad luck struck again Tuesday, when Milwaukee Brewers reliever Phil Bickford made his MLB debut and hit Jones in the hand. Derek Hill #29 of the Detroit Tigers runs the bases during the Detroit Tigers Summer Workouts at Comerica Park on July 11, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. During the Tigers recent 8-2 run, Jones was slashing just .250/.313/.321 with two doubles, two walks and 11 strikeouts.
Can Detroit Tigers bounce back from deflating loss or is this beginning of long slide?
DETROIT The first three weeks of this Detroit Tigers season have been unexpectedly fun. No moment has been more exciting than Wednesdays fourth inning against the Chicago White Sox. In the next 10 games, the Tigers will bookend a four-game series against the White Sox with two three-game series against the Cleveland Indians. The feeling in that clubhouse if they would have stolen a game from the White Sox on the backs of Greiner and Castro would be special. Losing eight of the next 10 against the Indians and White Sox would be a crippling blow, especially with 11 games against the Minnesota Twins and Chicago Cubs on the horizon.
Detroit Tigers place 1B C.J. Cron on 10-day injured list with left knee sprain
DETROIT The Detroit Tigers have placed slugging first baseman C.J. Cron on the 10-day injured list with a left knee sprain. Cron left Mondays game against the Chicago White Sox after taking a line drive off his knee in the top of the fourth inning. Cron #26 of the Detroit Tigers bats during game one of a doubleheader against the Cincinnati Reds at Comerica Park on August 2, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. Willi Castro #49 of the Detroit Tigers runs the bases during an exhibition game against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on July 22, 2020 in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Detroit Tigers send 19 players to Toledo -- 37 left competing for 30 roster spots
DETROIT The Detroit Tigers sent 19 players to their alternate training site in Toledo on Monday, leaving 37 players to battle for 30 Opening Day roster spots. READ: How will the Tigers fill their final rotation spots after the Jordan Zimmermann injury? Haase and Rogers were fighting for what figured to be two or three catcher spots on the roster. That means seven of these 13 players will also be sent to Toledo or the taxi squad, while six make the roster. Lets assume its 11, leaving four bullpen spots and two reserve spots open.
Predicting the full Detroit Tigers 30-man roster one week before the season begins
DETROIT It almost doesnt seem real, but one week from Friday is the start of what could be the strangest Detroit Tigers season ever. Roster makeupPredicting the roster for a team like the Tigers -- with so many unproven players fighting for jobs -- is tricky even in a normal year. READ: Here are the players included on the Detroit Tigers spring training rosterMLB expanded rosters by one spot before the pandemic, allowing teams to carry 26 players. He gave up way too many runs, but hes looked better in both spring training segments. Reyes was much better than Stewart during spring training in March, when the latter struggled to make any solid contact.
How the Detroit Tigers could make their Opening Day starting lineup as fun as possible
DETROIT This might be the most exciting time of the year for Detroit Tigers fans. Probability of being in actual Opening Day lineup: Keep dreaming! But the main reason hes included in this version of the Tigers lineup is his continuing ascent up the all-time leaderboards. Miguel Cabrera #24 of the Detroit Tigers looks on during Spring Training workouts at the TigerTown Facility on February 17, 2020 in Lakeland, Florida. Isaac Paredes #19 of the Detroit Tigers looks on during Spring Training workouts at the TigerTown Facility on February 18, 2020 in Lakeland, Florida.
7 Detroit Tigers who could benefit from expanded Opening Day rosters
DETROIT As part of the amended 60-game MLB season, each team will be allowed to include four additional players on its Opening Day roster. Heres a look at some of the Detroit Tigers players who could benefit from expanded rosters. Finally, Castro was among the teams hottest hitters in spring training, which was important after an uninspiring cup of tea at the big league level in 2019. RP Shao-Ching ChiangShao-Ching Chiang was an interesting addition to the Tigers first spring training roster. Travis Demeritte #50 of the Detroit Tigers at bat against the Oakland Athletics at Ring Central Coliseum on September 06, 2019 in Oakland, California.
Here are the 58 players included on the Detroit Tigers spring training roster
DETROIT The Detroit Tigers have released their initial Club Player Pool, including 58 players who can participate in spring training. Schwindel was one of the nice success stories of spring training in March. Willi Castro could benefit from the extra roster spots, but Lugo feels like someone who could still end up on the outside looking in. ProspectsThese are the players Tigers fans are most anxious to see, and for good reason. Dingler made the cut just weeks after being the teams second-round draft pick, but hell likely just get some work in Toledo.
Tigers hit 4 home runs, win 6-3 over White Sox
Jeimer Candelario #46 of the Tigers celebrates his two-run home run against the Chicago White Sox. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images)DETROIT - Willi Castro hit his first major league homer, one of four connections by the Detroit Tigers in a 6-3 win over the Chicago White Sox on Sunday. The White Sox got a homer from Wellington Castillo but lost for the 17th time in 25 games. White Sox starter Reynaldo Lpez (9-15) allowed five runs and nine hits, including three home runs, in four innings. Castillo got the White Sox within 5-3 with a two-out RBI single in the fifth, but Castro connected to put the Tigers back up by three in the seventh.
Hicks, Reyes power Tigers past Orioles in 12 innings 8-4
Richie Martin #1 of the Baltimore Orioles beats the tag from second baseman Willi Castro #49 of the Detroit Tigers to steal second base during the sixth inning at Comerica Park. The loss gave Baltimore its second straight 100-loss season after the Orioles finished 47-115 a year ago. Reyes hit his towering home run to right field off Baltimore closer Mychal Givens, who had worked nine straight scoreless appearances. The Orioles had taken a 4-3 lead in the top of the 12th inning as Rio Ruiz singled to score Mason Williams off Daniel Stumpf. Castro homered to right field in the third inning to open the scoring for Detroit.
Here's where the players acquired at the trade deadline rank among Detroit Tigers' top 30 prospects
In return, the Tigers acquired two prospects each from the Braves and Cubs. READ: Here's the plan for all 4 new Tigers prospects acquired at the trade deadlineWentz was ranked the No. 7 overall prospect in the Braves' organization, but Demeritte was not ranked among the top 30 prospects. MLB Pipeline updated the Tigers' top 30 prospects Thursday morning, including the players acquired at the deadline. He is expected to move to the bullpen in the Tigers' organization.