Tigers second base Gleyber Torres left tonight’s game with tightness on the left side, according to Chris McCosky of the Detroit News. He had two hits in his first start and homered for the first time, showing no signs of injury. Although Torres left the game in the third inning, his place was taken Hao-Yu Lee on the keystone on the fourth peak. Torres continues to be evaluated, according to McCosky.
Pulling Torres may seem like a precautionary move. Two players from Detroit – Zach McKinstry again Javier Baez – remained on the injured list in April. The infielders performed well at the plate, especially Kevin McGoniglebut injuries to McKinstry and Báez still depleted the Tigers’ outfield depth. They called Lee when McKinstry went down, and they also benefited Zack Short as deep as yesterday. The placement of Torres IL would be more important than McKinstry or Báez, however, so it makes sense for the club to take him out of the game without caution. The team is likely to announce more in the next few days, pending the results of Torres’ tests.
On the side of the pitch, he injured his right hand Justin Verlander is expected to hit a bullpen session this weekend, according to the team’s injury report. Verlander went to IL for 15 days on April 4 due to left hip inflammation, with Keider Montero remembered in his place. The injury was described as minor and a precaution for IL placement, though it wasn’t surprising considering the number of injuries Verlander suffered in his 40s. It is not clear whether he will need to be reassigned. It is likely that the team will have a clear timeline pending the outcome of the bullpen session.
Like their infield, Detroit’s rotation depth has been tested recently. Casey Mize had a 2.90 ERA through 31 innings but was placed on the 15-day IL on Wednesday to recover from an adductor strain. Jack Flaherty he has a 5.90 ERA and has failed to complete five innings in five of his 7 starts. Montero filled in decently, but lacked depth at the back Tarik Skubal again Framber Valdez it may be a point of concern going forward. A quick return for Verlander would go a long way toward improving that, especially if he can repeat his postseason performance starting in 2025 with the Giants.
Troy Melton it will re-enter the deep circulation. He was placed on the 60-day IL in early March after being cut short in camp due to elbow inflammation. According to a team announcement, Melton will begin a rehab assignment with the Tigers’ Low-A team tomorrow. The righty had a 2.76 ERA in 45 2/3 innings as a swingman last year and will continue to be it is built as a starting point. He’ll need a bit of rehab to build up his numbers, but he could fight to start in a month or so if all goes well.
