Tigers Bolster Pitching Amid Injuries, Beat Rays

The Detroit Tigers have signed left-handed pitcher Devin Smeltzer to a minor league contract and assigned him to Triple-A Toledo to bolster pitching depth amid injuries, including Jackson Jobe's season-ending surgery. The team also released veteran outfielder Manuel Margot, who was on a minor league deal. Right-hander Keider Montero was recalled from Triple-A and delivered six innings of one-run ball in his start against the Tampa Bay Rays. Montero, frequently moved between Detroit and Toledo, is expected to remain a key contributor as the Tigers address ongoing pitching shortages. These roster changes come as Detroit prepares for the July 31 trade deadline, where additional pitching upgrades are anticipated. The Tigers are striving to maintain their position among MLB's top teams despite injury setbacks.