Detroit Tigers: Matt Manning continues to be unlucky

Detroit Tigers pitcher Matt Manning continues to run into bad luck.

The Detroit Tigers have invested a lot of time into Matt Manning. The 25-year-old right-handed pitcher continues to carve out his role in the big leagues, which has taken some time as the right-hander has not always had the best luck.

But after the Detroit Tigers game on Friday, there was more on the Manning luck front, this time bringing some concern about. Manning had to leave the game early on Saturday after experiencing some issues with his back.

After delivering a pitch late in his start in Friday's outing, Manning looked to be a bit uncomfortable on the mound. Catcher Jake Rogers and shortstop Javier Báez both suspected something to be up and ended up bringing attention to it, prompting a mound visit.

The Tigers training staff and coach A.J. Hinch ended up taking a look at Manning, and the result was him leaving the game early. For the Tigers, it meant an early exit for Manning and some concern about things moving forward.

Manning exited with what was deemed as tweaking his lower back with discomfort. It has been noted that he is going to feel it out over the next few days and that it's not something of major concern at this time.

However, It's still something that is problematic for Manning, as he has had his fair share of injury trouble over the years. Staying healthy has not exactly been the most smooth process for Manning, but he's aiming to avoid a stint on the Injured List (IL).

From the sounds of it, Manning may not miss his next start, but the Tigers will wait and see how he is doing over the next few days before making any decisions. Manning has made 13 starts in 2023 as it stands, already missing time for injuries.

Manning has pitched to a 5-4 record while accumulating 71.0 innings pitched. He has pitched to a 3.93 ERA, a 1.06 WHIP, and has walked just 18 while striking out 45 opposing hitters. For the Tigers, they're hoping Manning can stay in the rotation; if not, it might call for a move from the minors.

That move would likely result in Joey Wentz or recently demoted Spencer Turnbull ending up in the rotation to take Manning's place. For Manning, the hope has to be for him to stay healthy. Finishing the 2023 season strong and on a high note would be a victory for the Tigers.

Manning has dealt with injuries and adversity on his Road to Detroit and his luck has not been great. He's yet to cross the 100.0 inning threshold while wearing a Tigers uniform. Hopefully he can stay healthy and get there in 2023, capping off a performance of growth.