What's Happening?
The Detroit Tigers have decided to suspend Alex Cobb's rehab assignment due to persistent soreness in both hips. Cobb, who signed a one-year, $15 million contract with the Tigers in December 2024, has been dealing with hip injuries since February. Despite participating in six games during his rehab, including two as a reliever with Triple-A Toledo, Cobb has not yet pitched for the Tigers in the 2025 MLB season. The team has opted to shut him down for seven days, which resets his 30-day rehab assignment clock. Manager A.J. Hinch stated that the team is in 'wait-and-see mode' regarding Cobb's return to the majors, emphasizing the need for Cobb to be able to contribute effectively to the team.
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Why It's Important?
Alex Cobb's situation is significant for the Detroit Tigers as they navigate the challenges of integrating a veteran pitcher into their roster amidst ongoing injury concerns. Cobb's inability to recover fully and contribute on the field impacts the team's pitching depth and strategic planning for the remainder of the season. The Tigers are not motivated to activate Cobb unless he can help them win games, highlighting the competitive pressures within MLB teams to prioritize performance over sentiment. Cobb's case also underscores the broader issue of managing veteran players' health and performance, which can affect team dynamics and financial decisions.
What's Next?
The Tigers will reassess Cobb's condition after the seven-day shutdown period. If Cobb can recover sufficiently, he may resume his rehab assignment with the possibility of returning to the majors before the season ends on September 28. The team will continue to evaluate his ability to bounce back from outings and contribute effectively. The decision to activate Cobb will depend on his performance and the team's needs as they approach the season finale. The Tigers are focused on having productive players who can help them win, and Cobb's future with the team remains uncertain.
