Tigers Reassign Eight Players to Minor League Camp as Roster Takes Shape
The Detroit Tigers made another round of roster cuts on Saturday, March 15, moving eight players to minor league camp as they continue shaping their roster for Opening Day on March 26. With less than two weeks until the regular season begins, competition for roster spots is heating up, and playing time in major league camp is becoming limited.
Position Players Sent Down
The Tigers reassigned outfielders Akil Baddoo and Bligh Madris, shortstop Andrew Navigato, and catcher Brian Serven.
- Akil Baddoo is still recovering from a hamate fracture and isn’t expected to return until late April. His reassignment was expected, as he needs more time to heal before getting back into action.
- Andrew Navigato made a strong impression in camp and will start the season with Triple-A Toledo.
- Bligh Madris and Brian Serven remain depth options for the organization, with limited chances of making the big-league roster unless injuries create opportunities.
Pitchers Reassigned
The Tigers also sent right-handers Brendan White and Jordan Balazovic, along with left-handers Dietrich Enns and Matt Gage, to minor league camp.
- Brendan White has the best chance of returning to the majors after battling arm troubles in 2024.
- Jordan Balazovic, a former Minnesota Twins prospect, spent last season in the KBO (Korean Baseball Organization). He has solid stuff but is still working on his command and adjusting to a bullpen role.
- Dietrich Enns, who has played in Japan and South Korea, is transitioning to a full-time relief role in his early 30s. The Tigers see him as a potential multi-inning bullpen option.
- Matt Gage, a hard-throwing lefty, has struggled with command but could develop into a left-handed relief option.
Bullpen and Rotation Battles Continue
With these moves, the Tigers’ bullpen picture is becoming clearer. Tyler Holton, Jason Foley, Will Vest, Tommy Kahnle, John Brebbia, Beau Brieske, Kenta Maeda, Andrew Chafin, Brenan Hanifee, and Sean Guenther remain in contention for relief roles.
In the starting rotation, Casey Mize, Jackson Jobe, and Keider Montero are still competing for the final two spots. The Tigers may shift the odd man out to the bullpen for added depth.
Final Roster Decisions Ahead
Following these cuts, the Tigers now have 41 players remaining in major league camp as they move closer to finalizing their 2024 Opening Day roster.