3 ways for the Detroit Tigers to prepare for worst case on Casey Mize

If the Detroit Tigers learn Casey Mize is out for an extended period, they will have a few options to consider

Injuries have been coming in mounds for the Detroit Tigers this season. During spring, they were forced to maneuver around injuries to Andrew Chafin, Kyle Funkhouser, Jose Cisnero, and Riley Greene. Now, they find themselves with another pile of injuries to deal with between Javier Baez, Casey Mize, and Matt Manning.

They have called Manning’s early exit on Saturday a precaution which is good news, but the Tigers and fans alike are still awaiting Casey Mize’s fate. Mize was placed on the 10-day IL on Friday with a ‘right elbow sprain.’ Mize alerted staff the day after his start of elbow soreness when playing catch. It has already been determined that Mize would ultimately miss his next start, which made the injured list decision an easy one to make.

Mize, according to Hinch, is in the process of undergoing several tests and getting opinions to determine the extent of his injury. Although the ulnar collateral ligament is in the elbow, many times the pain which ultimately leads to Tommy John Surgery originates in the forearm.

That said, Tommy John surgery remains a very real possibility, which would shelf Mize for the next 12-16 months for recovery, and leave them with a gaping hole in their rotation. Mize, who many felt was primed for a breakout, has pitched 10 innings this season; supplying a 5.40 ERA and just 4 strikeouts.

It’s likely too soon for the Tigers to start looking for longer-term replacements for Mize, but if they have to, what are their options?