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The Detroit Tigers have officially announced their 26-man roster for the American League Division Series against the Seattle Mariners, and there are a few notable names, and surprises, on the list.
After defeating the Cleveland Guardians in Thursday’s dramatic 6-3 win to clinch the AL Wild Card series, the Tigers are now set to face Seattle in a best-of-five showdown beginning Saturday at T-Mobile Park. Manager A.J. Hinch and President of Baseball Operations Scott Harris took their time finalizing the roster, with a few key returns and strategic decisions to balance the pitching staff and position depth.
Pitchers
The Tigers will carry 12 pitchers, highlighted by Tarik Skubal, the likely AL Cy Young favorite, and Jack Flaherty, who played a pivotal role in Thursday’s victory over the Guardians. Rookie Troy Melton, who is set to start Game 1, also made the cut after an impressive late-season run.
Pitchers (12):
Kyle Finnegan, Jack Flaherty, Brenan Hanifee, Tyler Holton, Brant Hurter, Tommy Kahnle, Troy Melton, Casey Mize, Keider Montero, Rafael Montero, Tarik Skubal, Will Vest
Catchers
No surprises here: Dillon Dingler and Jake Rogers will handle the catching duties. Dingler provided a huge spark in Game 3 of the Wild Card with his clutch home run, while Rogers brings veteran experience behind the plate.
Catchers (2):
Dillon Dingler, Jake Rogers
Infielders
Colt Keith and slugger Spencer Torkelson headline the infield group. Gleyber Torres brings postseason experience, and Trey Sweeney adds defensive flexibility.
Infielders (4):
Colt Keith, Trey Sweeney, Spencer Torkelson, Gleyber Torres
Outfielders
Detroit’s outfield remains one of its greatest strengths, led by Riley Greene and Kerry Carpenter, who combined for some of the team’s biggest moments down the stretch. Parker Meadows and Wenceel Pérez add athleticism and speed, while Jahmai Jones provides a versatile bench bat.
Outfielders (5):
Kerry Carpenter, Riley Greene, Jahmai Jones, Parker Meadows, Wenceel Pérez
Infield/Outfield Utility
As expected, Javier Báez, Andy Ibáñez, and Zach McKinstry round out the roster as the team’s multi-positional options. Hinch’s preference for flexibility means all three could see action in different roles throughout the series, though it seems like Báez will be the primary shortstop moving forward.
INF/OF (3):
Javier Báez, Andy Ibáñez, Zach McKinstry
The Bottom Line
The Tigers’ ALDS roster blends youth, power, and experience, a reflection of the foundation A.J. Hinch and Scott Harris have built over the past few seasons. With Tarik Skubal anchoring the rotation, Troy Melton getting the Game 1 nod, and a balanced lineup featuring both young stars and proven veterans, Detroit looks primed to challenge a red-hot Mariners team.
The first pitch of Game 1 is set for 8:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, October 4, at T-Mobile Park in Seattle.
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Don Drysdale
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