Injury to Tigers' pitcher at Triple-A feels like it could have serious implications

The Detroit Tigers lost another pitcher – and a potential postseason depth option – to injury when left-handed reliever Brant Hurter was placed on the 7-day injured list Tuesday at Triple-A Toledo.

The Tigers optioned Hurter to Triple-A on Aug. 17, but the 26-year-old still hasn't pitched in a game for Toledo after experiencing low back soreness following his first bullpen session after his demotion. Tigers manager AJ Hinch told reporters (including Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press) that Hurter won't be shut down from throwing, but there is still no clear timeline for his return.

Hurter registered a 2.45 ERA with 27 walks and 62 strikeouts across 58 2/3 innings in 38 games for the Tigers this season. He has struggled with command, however, with his walk rate plummeting from 3.4% in 2024 to 10.5% in 2025 – which is ultimately why the Tigers optioned him to Triple-A.

Injury to Tigers reliever Brant Hurter at Triple-A feels like it could have serious implications

While the fact that he isn't being shut down from throwing altogether is a promising sign that his injury isn't too serious, Hurter's placement on the IL could throw a wrench into the Tigers' pitching plans for the rest of the season (and potentially into the playoffs).

Had he remained healthy, Hurter would have been eligible to return to the Tigers on Sept. 1 – and he probably would have, considering he was a one of Detroit's prime candidates for a call-up when MLB rosters expand for the final month of the season. His injury status could complicate the Tigers' postseason pitching plans, adding yet another wrinkle to the "pitching chaos" in Detroit.

The Tigers will likely be cautious in their approach to getting Hurter back on the mound due to the role he is expected to play in their bullpen moving forward. Despite his recent control issues, Hurter has generally been one of the Tigers’ most reliable relievers since making his MLB debut last August. He has a 2.51 ERA with 100 strikeouts and 33 walks in 104 career Major League innings.

Hinch said Hurter's injury was "not alarming." But with precious little time remaining in the regular season, the Tigers need to be prepared for the worst in case Hurter is not an option for their bullpen come playoff time.

More Tigers content from Motor City Bengals