Three reasons for the Detroit Tigers' pitching regression

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May 13, 2022; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez (57) pitches during the first inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports /

2. The Eduardo Rodriguez drama

Nothing injury-wise can surprise Detroit Tigers fans anymore, but non-injury problems that prevent a player from participating remains a foreign territory. That is exactly where the organization finds itself with the newly-signed Eduardo Rodriguez, who made eight starts and supplied 0.5 fWAR before being placed on the restricted list out of nowhere.

The placement later was deemed a ‘marital issue’ and there is no timetable for Rodriguez’s return. He will not receive pay while on the restricted list.

Eduardo Rodriguez is on the restricted list due to a marital issue he’s attending to, The Post has learned. No timetable yet for return. https://t.co/qNlgn6uENI
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) June 14, 2022

Rodriguez had been rehabilitating in Toledo with the Mud Hens and was preparing a return from a previous rib injury when the issue arose. He made one start and struck out nine over four innings without allowing a run.

The lefty is a respected mid-rotation arm who receives high marks for his efficiency and command. He’s done a nice job this season generating soft contact; he ranks in the 72nd percentile of the league in average exit velocity.

The Detroit Tigers signed the former Boston Red Sox lefty to a five-year, $77 million contract in the offseason.