The Detroit Tigers have transformed their pitching staff into one of baseball's most formidable units, transitioning from a previous weakness. The starting rotation now boasts key acquisitions like Alex Cobb and Jack Flaherty, while the health of young pitchers Reese Olson and Casey Mize will be crucial. Underpinning the rotation is reigning AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal. The bullpen, which adapted well to manager A.J. Hinch's innovative strategies last season, looks equally strong with the additions of Tommy Kahnle and John Brebbia, along with veteran Andrew Chafin.

Spring training is already buzzing with the performance of Tanner Kohlhepp, a promising right-handed pitcher who made his spring debut against the Minnesota Twins. Kohlhepp's arsenal, including a sinker, slider, changeup, and cutter, has generated impressive metrics, suggesting he could ascend rapidly through the minor leagues. His mechanics have drawn comparisons to Seattle Mariners ace Luis Castillo, indicating potential for a bright future if he maintains this form.

The Detroit Tigers recently faced a setback with the signing of right-handed pitcher Alex Cobb, who is dealing with hip inflammation that has pushed his spring training schedule back by about a month. The delayed recovery process involved an epidural injection, part of a planned regimen, as confirmed by manager A.J. Hinch. Cobb’s participation in the Opening Day lineup remains uncertain, although he is reportedly on track to play catch soon.

The Tigers signed Cobb with the hope of bolstering their starting rotation, offering him a one-year contract worth $15 million, which could rise to $17 million if he exceeds 150 innings pitched—a milestone he has achieved only four times in his 13-year career. Cobb has a history of injury issues, never reaching 30 starts in any given season. After a brief stint with the Cleveland Guardians last season, where he had a respectable 2.76 ERA, he was expected to provide stability to the Tigers’ rotation.

Detroit Tigers outfielder Akil Baddoo will miss the start of the regular season after undergoing surgery on a fractured hamate bone in his right hand. Baddoo, who has been experiencing wrist soreness since spring training, was designated for assignment last December but cleared waivers and was outrighted to Triple-A Toledo. His struggles continued last season, hitting just .137 with two home runs in 31 games.

The Tigers are also dealing with injury concerns for Alex Cobb, who is expected to miss the beginning of the season due to hip inflammation. Baddoo's absence creates a more crowded outfield situation for Detroit, with notable left-handed hitters like Riley Green and Kerry Carpenter also in the mix.

Alex Cobb, the 37-year-old right-hander for the Detroit Tigers, is set to miss about a month due to right hip inflammation, as confirmed by manager A.J. Hinch. The former All-Star, who inked a one-year, $15 million deal in December, is unlikely to return in time for the season opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 27.

Cobb received a platelet-rich plasma injection last week after hip issues arose while increasing his throwing volume for spring training. After undergoing surgery on his left hip following the 2023 season, he only made three starts for the Cleveland Guardians in 2024, achieving a 2-1 record with a 2.76 ERA. Over his career, Cobb holds a 79-76 record with a 3.84 ERA across 233 starts with several teams including the Tampa Bay Rays and San Francisco Giants.

The Detroit Tigers have shown strong momentum heading into the offseason following their remarkable second half of the previous season, where they clawed back to secure a wild card playoff spot. However, the much-anticipated roster improvements have been minimal, with only two one-year contracts signed: second baseman Gleyber Torres and starting pitcher Alex Cobb. While Torres may boost the batting lineup, Cobb's injury history raises concerns about his impact on the rotation, which faced similar issues last year.

Detroit is still pursuing upgrades, notably eyeing Houston Astros' Alex Bregman to strengthen the third base position. A key suggestion from Jim Bowden of The Athletic is to re-sign Jack Flaherty, a one-time Tiger, who showcased significant potential last season. Despite health concerns, a contract similar to those offered to other pitchers could facilitate his return, potentially enhancing the Tigers' playoff aspirations.