Tigers Recall Brewer Hicklen for Thursday’s Doubleheader Against Rockies

DENVER, Colorado — The Detroit Tigers announced the recall of outfielder Brewer Hicklen from Triple-A Toledo on Thursday, ahead of their second game against the Colorado Rockies.

Hicklen, 29, did not appear in any games during his previous stint with Detroit in April. He will start in center field for the evening matchup. This is an important opportunity for Hicklen, who is still seeking his first major-league hit after two prior brief appearances with the Kansas City Royals and Milwaukee Brewers.

In Triple-A, Hicklen has a batting average of .242 with a .368 on-base percentage through 114 plate appearances. He struck out 34 times and has hit just .242 with a .674 OPS across 25 games this season.

In a corresponding move, right-handed reliever Chase Lee was optioned to Triple-A Toledo after pitching two innings in Thursday’s first game, which the Tigers won 10-2 against the Rockies. Lee allowed one run over 6 1/3 innings since being called up on April 22.

The Tigers are expected to make another roster move Friday, potentially reinstating right-handed reliever John Brebbia from the injured list. Brebbia, who has been away since April 19 due to a triceps strain, has made significant progress in his recovery.

Prior to his injury, Brebbia had a 1.00 ERA and a WHIP of 0.89, with three hits allowed over nine innings. His return could limit Hicklen’s time on the big-league roster.

Despite the challenges at the plate in Triple-A, Hicklen’s performance against Colorado will be closely watched as he aims to reverse his fortunes in the majors.