Detroit Tigers Make Key Bullpen Move: RJ Petit Promoted to Triple-A as Brendan White is Released
DETROIT — In a significant roster shake-up aimed at fortifying their pitching pipeline, the Detroit Tigers have promoted towering right-hander RJ Petit to Triple-A Toledo, marking a major milestone in the reliever’s journey through the minor leagues. The corresponding roster move saw the release of Brendan White, ending his five-year tenure within the Tigers organization.
The promotion comes as Petit, a 6-foot-8, 300-pound force on the mound, continues to impress with his performance at Double-A Erie. At just 25 years old, Petit has posted a standout 2.28 ERA over 43 1/3 innings this season. His dominant run includes 46 strikeouts against only 12 walks, showcasing both power and precision out of the bullpen. Drafted in the 14th round out of Charleston Southern in 2021, Petit’s imposing presence and strong numbers have earned him this long-anticipated promotion to the Mud Hens.
In contrast, the release of Brendan White marks a difficult turn in what had once been a promising career. The 26-year-old right-hander was a 26th-round pick out of Siena College in 2019 and quickly climbed the ranks with back-to-back strong seasons in the minors. White made his MLB debut with the Tigers in 2023, appearing in 33 games and logging 40 2/3 innings with a 2-3 record and 5.09 ERA, along with 44 strikeouts and 15 walks.
However, his trajectory stalled in 2024 as injuries and command issues plagued his progress. After being non-tendered last offseason and removed from the 40-man roster, White re-signed with Detroit on a minor-league deal that included a spring training invite. Unfortunately, struggles persisted at Toledo this year, where he posted a 7.24 ERA over 32 1/3 innings, walking 17 and striking out 27.
As the Tigers continue to evaluate and retool their bullpen options, Petit’s arrival in Toledo will be closely watched. With his size, skill, and success at Double-A, he now has an opportunity to prove himself one step closer to the majors. For White, the move signals an uncertain future, but his past experience could still draw interest from other teams seeking bullpen depth.
Stay tuned as Detroit continues to shape its pitching core heading into the final stretch of the season.
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