BREAKING: The Detroit Tigers have just signed veteran right-hander Tanner Rainey to a minor-league contract, a move that could shake up their pitching depth. Rainey, 32, has been assigned to Triple-A Toledo as he seeks to regain his form after recent challenges.
Earlier today, the Tigers confirmed this signing, marking a significant step in their roster adjustments. Rainey made 11 appearances for the Pittsburgh Pirates this season before being sent to their Triple-A affiliate in Indianapolis. With a career strikeout rate of 27.7 percent, he brings a potent arm to the Tigers’ lineup, despite ongoing control issues that have plagued him throughout his career.
Rainey’s journey in Major League Baseball spans parts of eight seasons, most notably with the Washington Nationals from 2019 to 2024. He was drafted in the second round of the 2015 MLB Draft by the Cincinnati Reds after a standout career at the University of West Alabama.
This signing reflects the Tigers’ urgent need to bolster their bullpen as they navigate a challenging season. Fans are eager to see if Rainey’s experience and impressive strikeout capabilities can translate into success at the Triple-A level and eventually help the Tigers in their quest for a stronger pitching roster.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Rainey’s performance in Toledo, where he will have the opportunity to prove his worth and potentially earn a spot back in the majors. Stay tuned for updates on his progress and how this acquisition impacts the Tigers’ pitching strategy moving forward.
