Overview
- The Tigers sent right-hander Keider Montero to Triple-A Toledo shortly after he threw three scoreless innings in a WBC exhibition against Panama.
- Manager A.J. Hinch said the aim is to keep Montero stretched as a starter for potential sixth-starter or injury-replacement needs rather than a bullpen role.
- Hinch outlined a plan for one or two bulk appearances for Venezuela in the WBC before Montero continues building to a starting workload at Toledo.
- Detroit’s rotation is set with Tarik Skubal, Framber Valdez, Justin Verlander, Jack Flaherty and Casey Mize, with Drew Anderson slated for long relief and Montero seventh on the depth chart.
- Montero has one option year remaining and would be out of options entering 2027 if he spends at least 20 days in the minors, while injuries to Reese Olson, Jackson Jobe and Troy Melton thin Detroit’s depth and make him a likely early call-up; prospect Hao-Yu Lee strained his left oblique and returned for evaluation.