Detroit Tigers Sunday MCB Notes: Spring Training is finally underway

We are rolling out every Sunday the “Detroit Tigers MCB Notes” a weekly recap of all things Detroit Tigers & MLB that catches our eye.

For the first time in 2022, we can hear the “best shape in their career” stories and roll with it as Detroit Tigers spring training is underway down in Lakeland. The last few weeks have been filled with the headlines of the Detroit Tigers minor league players in mini-camp. Now, several of those names are now in the major league camp.

Here’s the Detroit Tigers Spring Training Roster

Coming soon to TigerTown!

Here’s our roster for 2022 Spring Training in Lakeland, Florida. pic.twitter.com/GdPNggfrAP
— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) March 13, 2022

Jake Rogers and Spencer Turnbull are both on the 60-day IL but there was an encouraging sign last week as Rogers was seen throwing the ball. He went under Tommy John surgery in the fall.

DAY 1. ❤️
Feels good to throw the rock again!! #HappyMonday pic.twitter.com/HSJRgKHqNp
— Jake Rogers (@_JROG_) March 7, 2022

A.J. Hinch speaks to the media

Earlier this morning, Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch spoke to the media regarding the future, expectations for the Tigers this season and the starting rotation. Have to admit, it was nice to see a normal press conference instead of a zoom call.

Tigers manager AJ Hinch said he could fill out a five-man rotation with the guys currently in camp. Tyler Alexander would be the internal favorite for the fifth spot.
— Jason Beck (@beckjason) March 13, 2022

Tigers manager AJ Hinch opens spring training: he says he always tells his teams the goal is the postseason. Says this is no different. pic.twitter.com/nO0HPpsJ1U
— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) March 13, 2022

Tigers manager AJ Hinch said Spencer Torkelson and Riley Greene have handled a lot this year very well.

“There’s a reason we love them,” he said. Said they each have “‘It’ factor.”
— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) March 13, 2022

A former pair of Detroit Tigers find a new home

In a move that no one saw coming, the St. Louis Cardinals kicked off free agency by signing former Tigers pitcher Drew VerHagen, who has spent the last two seasons in Japan. The other signing was the Houston Astros signing former infielder Niko Goodrum. Goodrum had this to say after he was signed.

Niko Goodrum on agreeing to a one-year deal with the Astros, pending physical: “One of the big things is winning,” he said on what drew him to Houston. “I've been playing against them for four years and just see the amazing things going on.”
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) March 13, 2022

Tigers add another bullpen arm for depth

On Saturday night, the Tigers signed RHP Miguel Diaz to a minor league deal. Dias, who was pitching with the San Diego Padres last season, throws primary a fastball and a changeup. Expect him to start the season with Toledo.

Miguel Cabrera is ready to pass the torch to Spencer Torkelson.

While speaking to the press today, Miguel Cabrera said he was willing to DH more so 1B Spencer Torkelson can play first base.

Tigers infielders in camp rotated taking ground balls this morning. Spencer Torkelson was the only one taking grounders at 1B.

When asked how often he could play at 1B, Miguel Cabrera said, "I don't know, because we want Torkelson in the lineup. ... I'll take the DH."
— Jason Beck (@beckjason) March 13, 2022

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