Casey Mize is heading north to Detroit.
Friday morning, Tigers manager A.J. Hinch announced that Mize has made the Tigers’ starting rotation after a final performance against the Blue Jays that saw the rookie strikeout nine.
Hinch also announced that former AL Rookie of the Year Michael Fulmer will open up the season in the bullpen.
According to Mlive.com, the Tigers’ rotation to start the season will feature Matthew Boyd getting the ball next week for Opening Day against Cleveland and will be followed by Julio Teheran and Tarik Skubal on April 3 and 4 respectively. Jose Ureña and Mize will get the nod on the team’s April 5 and 6 games against the Minnesota Twins.
Notably, Spencer Turnbull — who is currently in COVID-19 protocol — may be eligible to return sometime in early April in which case Hinch could move to a six-man starting rotation or move someone to the bullpen.
Non-roster invitee Derek Holland was also informed that he will make the Opening Day roster meaning some adjustments will have to be made to the 40-man before April 1. Evan Woodbery notes the most likely scenario, in this case, is sending lefty Tyler Alexander to the minors since he still has options left, however, other relievers such Joe Jimenez, Bryan Garcia, and Jose Cisnero also have options so it’s entirely possible either one of them get sent down as well.