Tigers Reach Deals with McKinstry, Ibáñez, Claim LHP from Boston; Tender Contracts to All Eligible Players but One….

Tigers Reach Deals with McKinstry, Ibáñez, Claim LHP from Boston; Tender Contracts to All Eligible Players but One…..

Detroit, MI – The Detroit Tigers have made several key moves in the off-season, securing contracts with utility player Zach McKinstry and reliever José Ibáñez, while also adding a left-handed pitcher from the Boston Red Sox. Additionally, the Tigers have tendered contracts to all eligible players for the 2024 season, with one notable exception.

McKinstry, who joined the Tigers in a trade last season, has been a valuable contributor both offensively and defensively. The 28-year-old infielder/outfielder, who has shown versatility across multiple positions, will remain with Detroit after reaching a deal to continue his tenure in the Motor City. McKinstry was a standout for the Tigers last season, most notably with his powerful solo home run against the Cleveland Indians in a crucial September game. The long ball helped propel the Tigers to a key victory in their push for a potential playoff spot. His ability to fill in across various positions, combined with his timely bat, makes him a reliable piece for manager A.J. Hinch as the Tigers prepare for 2024.

Meanwhile, Ibáñez, who was acquired during the 2023 season, also reached a deal with the team. The right-handed reliever will be a crucial part of the Tigers’ bullpen as they aim to improve their pitching depth for the coming year. Ibáñez’s fastball-slider combination showed promise during his brief stint with Detroit, and his presence could help solidify the team’s relief corps in a competitive American League Central.

In another move, the Tigers made a claim for a left-handed pitcher from the Boston Red Sox. The details of the claim have not yet been fully disclosed, but the addition provides another arm to compete for a spot in the rotation or bullpen. With the Tigers aiming to build on their promising pitching staff, the addition of a southpaw gives them more options as they prepare for spring training.

In roster management news, the Tigers have tendered contracts to all of their eligible players for the 2024 season with the exception of one. The decision not to tender a contract to one player is seen as part of Detroit’s effort to trim costs and potentially open up roster space for younger prospects. While the identity of the non-tendered player has not been revealed, it’s expected that the front office is positioning the team for greater flexibility in the coming months.

With these moves, the Tigers have shown they are focused on maintaining a competitive roster while planning for the future. The next few months will be crucial as the team continues to build its core, both through smart acquisitions and development within their farm system.