Tigers, Phillies Kick Off Grapefruit League Season in Lakeland

LAKELAND, Fla. — The 2025 baseball season officially begins today as the Detroit Tigers host the Philadelphia Phillies for the first Grapefruit League matchup at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium, with the game starting at 1:05 p.m. ET. Dan Dickerson will provide play-by-play coverage on the Tigers radio network.

Starting for the Tigers is Kenta Maeda, who aims to secure a starting role after overcoming challenges last season, including maintaining his fastball velocity. During previous seasons, Maeda struggled to reach beyond 91 mph, but this spring, he has consistently pitched at 91-92 mph. “I’m feeling much better than last year, and I’m ready for the challenge,” Maeda said earlier this week.

Despite the optimism, Tigers management is cautious. “This is part of the evaluation process as we prep for Opening Day,” said Tigers manager A.J. Hinch, who will not be present for today’s game due to attending the memorial service for former player and coach Rich Dauer. “We are taking it day by day to assess our pitching lineup.” The Tigers will be managed by bench coach George Lombard in Hinch’s absence.

On a somber note, Dauer, who passed away earlier this week at 72, was a coach admired by many in the organization. He had a distinguished 18-year coaching career after being part of the Baltimore Orioles’ championship team in 1983. His legacy will be honored by the Tigers during today’s game.

Meanwhile, the Phillies are starting RHP Nabil Crismatt, a non-roster invitee known for his previous stints with the Cardinals and Padres. With a career ERA of 3.71, Crismatt hopes to earn a spot in the bullpen. “This is my opportunity to show what I can do; I’m excited to be here,” Crismatt said.

Philadelphia’s lineup features regulars such as Bryson Stott and Alec Bohm, who are looking to rebound from disappointing seasons in 2024. “We want to start off strong and prove we are ready for the upcoming season,” Stott remarked. However, key players like Bryce Harper and J.T. Realmuto are expected to sit out today’s game, making their debut later in the week.

In addition to the injuries affecting player availability, outfielder Akil Baddoo is ruled out of the lineup due to a hamate hook fracture that requires recovery time. Furthermore, Javier Báez is also not cleared to play until he completes running tests following hip surgery.

As spring training progresses, fans will be keenly watching rising talents like Kevin McGonigle, who impressed during live batting practice earlier this week. “He showed a lot of potential,” said coach Alex Kramer. “He’s one to watch as the games get underway.”