Veteran Infielder Designated by Tigers

Photo by MLB On Fox

DETROIT, MI: Following reports from yesterday, the Tigers confirmed today that they have chosen to sign infielders Jace Jung and Trey Sweeney to contracts.

Gio Urshela, an infielder, was designated for assignment and outfielder Akil Baddoo was optioned to Triple-A Toledo in matching moves. Left-hander Easton Lucas was sent to free up another 40-man place. The Urshela move on X was first reported by Robert Murray of FanSided before it was officially announced.

Following the 2023 season, Urshela, 32, became eligible for free agency for the first time. From 2019 to 2022, he enjoyed a successful four years in the major leagues; however, his 2023 season was plagued by injuries. Before a pelvic fracture ended his season, he played in 62 games with the Angels and only hit two home runs.

Urshela was able to be acquired by the Tigers for a one-year contract guarantee of under $1.5MM. Despite his lackluster 2023 season, they were probably thrilled to have a reliable veteran at such a modest cost. As previously noted, Urshela played for the Yankees and Twins during a productive four-year career that ended in 2023. With a wRC+ of 118 during that time, he slashed .290/.336/.463 and hit 54 home runs in 435 games.

It would have been a steal for the Tigers if they had received even half that kind of result for their small investment. Regretfully, Urshela's recovery has not gone as planned. He has played in 92 games for Detroit this season, hitting .243/.286/.333 with five home runs. This corresponds to a 73 wRC+, meaning that this season, he has performed 27% below league average at the plate.