Detroit Tigers Vie for Rotation Spot Against Twins
As the Detroit Tigers inch closer to opening day, the battle for rotation spots intensifies. Today, right-hander Casey Mize takes the mound for his final audition of the spring, as the Tigers face off against the Minnesota Twins in a Grapefruit League exhibition.
Mize, the Tigers’ former No. 1 overall pick, is making his return from back and elbow surgeries that sidelined him for the entirety of the 2022 campaign. His performance this spring has been encouraging, with a 3.38 ERA and a steady increase in pitch count and stamina with each outing.
In his previous start against the Yankees, Mize showcased his potential, tossing four innings of two-hit ball while striking out four. The 26-year-old hurler will look to build upon that outing, aiming to solidify his spot in the Tigers’ rotation for the upcoming season.
On the other side of the diamond, the Twins will counter with right-hander Louie Varland, who is also vying for a rotation role after an impressive showing in relief last September. Varland’s electric stuff, featuring a 99 mph four-seamer and a devastating cutter, could pose a challenge for the Tigers’ hitters.
The battle for the final rotation spot in Detroit has been a fierce one, with Mize competing against the likes of Reese Olson and Matt Manning. Manager A.J. Hinch has hinted at the possibility of piggybacking starters early in the season, a strategy that could benefit Mize as he continues to build up his endurance.
While the focus will be on the mound, the Tigers’ infield battle also bears watching. Free-agent signee Gio Urshela has been the frontrunner at third base, but Matt Vierling’s versatility and solid spring performance have kept him in the mix for potential playing time.
As the exhibition season winds down, every opportunity carries added weight for players fighting for roster spots. For Casey Mize and the Tigers, today’s matchup against the Twins represents one final chance to make a lasting impression before the games begin to count.