Detroit Tigers make trade, put final touches on the 2023 pitching staff

The Detroit Tigers made one last trade before Opening Day

As first reported by Evan Petzold of the Freep, the Tigers traded for Rays left-handed outfielder Grant Witherspoon for cash considerations. He split time between Double-A Montgomery and Triple-A Durham in 2022 where he put up a WRC+ over 100 in both spots. He hit 17 home runs between both levels.

Witherspoon stands at 6'3 and according to scouting reports, he is an above-average defender. This seems nothing more than a depth trade for Erie or Toledo. New Tigers Assistant general manager Rob Metzler is familiar with Witherspoon, as he was the senior director of amateur scouting for the Rays before coming to Detroit in the off-season.

Tigers set their rotation for Tampa and Houston

Detroit also made a series of roster moves as the final spots on the roster were announced. To make room for newcomers Chasen Shreve and Trey Wingenter, Rony Garcia was sent to Toledo after he was cleared waivers. Right-hander Beau Brieske was put on the IL. Manager A.J. Hinch also announced the starting rotation. Here's how the first five starts will go.

1. Eduardo Rodriguez

He gets the Opening Day assignment

2. Spencer Turnbull

Turnbull will start on Saturday against the Rays then get the ball on Opening Day in Detroit.

3. Joey Wentz

Wentz is starting in place of Michael Lorenzen. He will get the start in Sunday's finale with Tampa

4. Matthew Boyd

Boyd will get the start against Houston on Monday

5. Matt Manning

Manning starts the second game at Minute Maid Field

The bullpen will look like this: LHP Tyler Alexander, RHP Jose Cisnero, RHP Mason Englert, RHP Jason Foley, RHP Garrett Hill, LHP Chasen Shreve and RHP Trey Wingenter.