Tigers’ Rotation Solidifies with Top Prospects for Opening Day

LAKELAND, Fla. — The Detroit Tigers have finalized their starting rotation for the upcoming season, officially welcoming top pitching prospects Jackson Jobe and Casey Mize into their lineup. The announcement came Saturday, mere days before the Tigers are set to open the season against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 27.

By optioning right-handed pitcher Keider Montero and infielder Ryan Kreidler to Triple-A Toledo, the Tigers have cleared the way for Jobe to join American League Cy Young Award winner in their rotation. Jobe, hailing from Oklahoma City, was the third overall pick in the 2021 amateur draft and is widely acclaimed as one of baseball’s elite prospects.

This spring, Jobe has showcased promising talent with a solid 3.65 ERA over four appearances. The 22-year-old made his major league debut last season, contributing four scoreless innings during the Tigers’ playoff run. His exceptional skills, including a powerful fastball, have the Tigers optimistic about his potential as he transitions into a starting role.

In contrast, Mize, a former No. 1 overall draft pick in 2018, is seeking to reclaim his position among the Tigers’ key starters following a tumultuous recovery from Tommy John surgery. After struggling last season with a 4.49 ERA and limited game time, Mize is eager to capitalize on his recent spring training success, where he posted a remarkable 1.13 ERA with 18 strikeouts in 16 innings pitched. “I feel like I went into this offseason with a plan to get better, and I feel like some of that is starting to pay off,” Mize remarked on his progress.

Mize’s experiences last season, when he was unable to contribute during the postseason, catalyzed his determination to improve his game this spring. “It was bittersweet, because we were doing something magical, and I just wanted to be a part of it. It drives me all winter,” he said.

With Montero and veteran pitcher Kenta Maeda pushed to the bullpen, Jobe’s inclusion marks a significant step for the Tigers as they aim for consistent performance in their starting rotation. Manager A.J. Hinch acknowledges the pressure of high expectations but believes both Jobe and Mize are ready for the challenge. “There’s a difference between being a general strike-thrower and a guy who executes one pitch at a time,” Hinch stated, emphasizing the need for precision at the major league level.

As the season begins, the team is also monitoring the health of center fielder Parker Meadows, who is sidelined due to a nerve issue in his shoulder. Meadows will be unavailable for returning to throwing activities for at least four more weeks but can still participate in non-throwing baseball activities. However, the Tigers remain optimistic about Meadows’ potential for recovery.

Detroit’s roster adjustments also leave room for potential additional signings before their opener in Los Angeles. With their pitching prospects gaining prominence and the roster taking shape, the Tigers are set to make a competitive start to their season.