Former top prospect returned to Tigers after Rule 5 Draft detour with Cubs

It's been quite the journey for Detroit Tigers prospect Gage Workman, but he's finally back where he belongs.

Workman, originally selected by Detroit in the fourth round of the 2020 MLB Draft, was returned to the Tigers by the Chicago White Sox on Wednesday after he cleared waivers. Since the Tigers are not obligated to assign him to their 40-man or 26-man rosters, he will be assigned to Triple-A Toledo.

Workman was selected from the Tigers by the Chicago Cubs in December’s Rule 5 Draft, after which he made their Opening Day roster and suited up for nine games. However, the Cubs designated Workman for assignment and then traded him to the Chicago White Sox for cash last month after they signed veteran infielder Nicky Lopez.

Workman appeared in just three games with the White Sox before landing on the injured list with a right hip flexor strain. Once they reinstated him, the White Sox opted to DFA Workman, and he passed through waivers unclaimed. Since Rule 5 picks must remain on the active MLB roster all season or be offered back to their original team, Workman landed back in the Tigers' minor league system, where he had spent the past four seasons.

Former top prospect Gage Workman returns to Tigers after Rule 5 Chicago detour

Workman had never played above the Double-A level prior to this season, so it's understandable why the Tigers were willing to risk exposing him in the Rule 5 Draft. Now that he's back, he has an opportunity to solidify himself as a future piece in Detroit.

Workman, who was college teammates with Tigers slugger Spencer Torkelson at Arizona State, is coming off a strong 2024 season in which he posted an .843 OPS with 18 home runs and 30 stolen bases in 556 plate appearances at Double-A Erie. A left-handed hitter who primarily plays third base and shortstop, Workman has experience playing all over the diamond.

The Tigers value the kind of defensive versatility that Workman brings to the table, so a strong season at the plate in Toledo could go a long way toward helping him earn future big league experience.

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