Prior to Friday’s game in Kansas City, the Detroit Tigers want to choose the contract of right-handed reliever Dylan Smith.
If Smith gets into a game, it would be his first time playing in Major League Baseball. Smith made his Triple-A debut only a few days ago.
No announcement has yet been made on the related move.
Jackson Jobe, the right-hander, did not show up at the Tigers’ clubhouse on Wednesday following a start in which his velocity was noticeably reduced. The Tigers may decide to deploy an additional bullpen arm while they work out their rotation plans, as Jobe won’t be starting until June 3.
Smith, who turned 25 on Wednesday, was selected in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the University of Alabama. Early in his career, he was regarded as such a valuable prospect that in 2022, he was invited to big-league camp. However, he has faced injuries and had a difficult minor league career.
He has had a smooth transition since the Tigers moved him to the bullpen this season. In 20 innings with Double-A Erie, Smith recorded a 1.80 ERA, walking seven and striking out 27. In two appearances with Triple-A Toledo, he has struck out five over 2 1/3 innings.
The Tigers’ 40-man roster will be complete with Smith added.
