Detroit Tigers are likely to omit former first-rounder from Opening Day roster
Alex Faedo is expected to be moved down to Triple-A before Opening Day, given his remaining choices. Despite a strong spring showing, he was left off the Detroit Tigers’ roster.
Spring Training is wrapping up, and Opening Day is quickly approaching. The Detroit Tigers have continued to make roster trims and cuts, reducing their roster size. They’re getting close to completing their active roster, with two more bullpen berths to be awarded to a quartet of relievers.
The Detroit Tigers are considering a couple of former prospects for relief positions. One of the players who may be left off the roster is a previous first-round pick who was also a high prospect on his way to the major leagues. Alex Faedo has choices but is unlikely to land one of the remaining bullpen positions.
He is more likely to be a casualty of avoiding waivers. Miguel Diaz and Joey Wentz do not have any remaining options, thus they would have to go through waivers and be offered to the rest of the league before being sent down to Triple A. Detroit’s Faedo and Beau Brieske may begin the season in Triple-A.
Faedo was a former 18th overall pick following an outstanding career with the Florida Gators. His path to the major leagues has not been easy, but it appears like he will return to the minors in 2024. With only two bullpen places left and four players vying for them, something will have to give — sadly, Faedo appears to be the least probable candidate.
Detroit Tigers likely to option former first-rounder Alex Faedo.
Faedo is 28 years old and has already made his major league debut. He has pitched in 27 games with 24 starts in his career, including each of the last two seasons. He’s tossed 118.1 innings for a 4.49 ERA and a 1.32 WHIP. He has 20 walks and 58 strikeouts in his career with the Tigers.
While the majority of his opportunities with the Tigers have come as a starter, it appears that his future with the Tigers will be as a relief pitcher. However, because he is one of the players with remaining options, he will most likely be sent back to the minors to marinate some more.
The unpleasant reality is that Faedo has performed admirably during Spring Training. He’s been fantastic for the Tigers this spring and has had some success. Faedo has pitched in seven games, logging 13.1 innings with a 1.35 ERA and 0.83 WHIP. He has only walked two batters while striking out 17 others.
It’s been a great spring for him, and he appears to be in good spirits as he continues to make the roster cut. Unfortunately, he will most likely return to Triple-A to prevent losing anyone to the waiver process.
Frankly, it’s hard to imagine the Tigers would prefer send Faedo back to the minors than keep Miguel Diaz. He’s someone who could clear waivers in my opinion, and Faedo’s spring has been excellent; give him a chance.
