The Detroit Tigers are navigating a challenging phase in their season, having lost nine of their last ten games. Following a setback in their series against the Pittsburgh Pirates, the team is facing critical issues if they aim to stay competitive in the American League. The recent downturn in performance is prompting significant changes within the roster to address these struggles.
In a notable move, the Tigers have designated outfielder Brewer Hicklen for assignment. Hicklen, who joined the team in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers earlier this season, made a brief appearance in May, showcasing potential by going 2-for-3 with a walk. However, his overall performance has not lived up to expectations, as he has struggled with a .227 batting average with 8 homers and 14 stolen bases during his time at Triple-A Toledo. With only 13 major league plate appearances throughout his career, Hicklen’s familiarity with the big leagues has been limited.
While Hicklen possesses solid speed—having stolen 248 bases in his professional career—and the versatility to play across all three outfield positions, his recent lack of contact has raised concerns. The Tigers are currently assessing their outfield depth, awaiting the return of Kerry Carpenter from an injured hamstring.
The organization has a window of five days to either trade Hicklen or place him on waivers, potentially shifting him back to Triple-A, either with the Tigers or with another team. This decision could signal a busy week for Detroit as they strategize to bolster their roster in preparation for a push toward the postseason.
This move deals with the ongoing adjustments that the Tigers are making to regain momentum in their season, reflecting the competitive nature of the league and the need for teams to be proactive in addressing player performance and roster efficiency.