1. Kenta Maeda (RHP) – Released
Veteran right-hander Kenta Maeda has officially been designated for assignment and released by the Tigers on May 2, 2025. The 37-year-old struggled in 2024 after a $24 million two-year deal and posted a rough 7.88 ERA in seven relief appearances this season. With his release, Detroit recalled Tyler Owens from Triple-A as Maeda exits the Motor City.
2. Alex Faedo (RHP) – Traded to Rays
In early February 2025, the Tigers traded former first-round pick Alex Faedo to the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for catcher Enderson Delgado and cash considerations. Faedo, drafted 18th overall in 2017, spent parts of 2023–2024 with Detroit but hadn’t secured a firm spot in their bullpen, leading to this offseason move.
3. Javier Báez (IF/OF) – Heading Out
Longtime Tigers fiery shortstop-turned-outfielder Javier Báez has not been officially announced as departing yet, but Detroit’s offense is shifting. Báez, 31, has slid to a bench/utility role, with the Tigers reportedly targeting more consistent offense via trade deadline moves . MLB analysts now consider Báez a candidate to be moved out by the July deadline in favor of younger, long-term options.
What This Means for Detroit
- Pitching Revamp
- Maeda’s release saves salary and opens a roster spot for younger arms.
- Faedo’s departure was part of a series of offseason adjustments aimed at building pitching depth in the minors.
- Offensive Push
- The apparent decline of Báez’s role signals Detroit’s ambition to upgrade its lineup ahead of a playoff push, possibly through a midseason trade.
- Roster Outlook
- With three key veterans poised to exit, the Tigers are skewing younger—prioritizing speed, emerging arms, and offensive consistency.
Looking Ahead
Detroit’s front office appears to be doubling down on youth and performance. While losing veteran depth, the Tigers gain flexibility—financially and roster-wise—to chase impact players at the trade deadline, particularly in rotation and offensive upgrades.
Expect more veteran movement in the coming weeks as Detroit sharpens its focus on contention for 2025 and beyond.
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