What's Happening?
The Detroit Tigers have re-signed left-handed pitcher Bryan Sammons on a minor-league deal following his stint in Japan during the 2025 season. Sammons, who is 30 years old, previously made six appearances for the Tigers in 2024, serving as a multi-inning reliever. During his time with the Tigers, he posted a 3.62 ERA over 27 1/3 innings, with nine walks and 18 strikeouts. Originally from North Carolina, Sammons was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in 2017 and worked his way up to Triple-A before being released in 2022. After a brief period with the Houston Astros and an independent league team, he joined the Tigers in 2023. His MLB debut was notable for a long outing, pitching 7 1/3 innings, the longest by a Tigers pitcher in their debut since
2002. After being waived by the Tigers, Sammons played for the Chiba Lotte Marines in Japan, achieving a 9-6 record with a 3.43 ERA over 120 2/3 innings.
Why It's Important?
Sammons' return to the Tigers highlights the team's strategy of bolstering their pitching depth with experienced players who have international experience. His performance in Japan demonstrates his ability to adapt and succeed in different baseball environments, which could be beneficial for the Tigers as they aim to strengthen their roster. The re-signing also reflects the Tigers' ongoing efforts to develop a competitive team by investing in players who have shown potential in previous seasons. For Sammons, this move represents another opportunity to prove his capabilities in Major League Baseball and potentially secure a more permanent role with the team.
What's Next?
Sammons is expected to return to Triple-A Toledo, where he spent much of the 2023 and 2024 seasons. His performance there will likely determine his chances of being called up to the major league team again. The Tigers will be monitoring his progress closely, especially given their need for reliable pitching options. If Sammons can replicate or improve upon his past performances, he may become a valuable asset for the Tigers in the upcoming season.
