Detroit Tigers outfielder Akil Baddoo will miss the start of the regular season after undergoing surgery on a fractured hamate bone in his right hand. Baddoo, who has been experiencing wrist soreness since spring training, was designated for assignment last December but cleared waivers and was outrighted to Triple-A Toledo. His struggles continued last season, hitting just .137 with two home runs in 31 games.

The Tigers are also dealing with injury concerns for Alex Cobb, who is expected to miss the beginning of the season due to hip inflammation. Baddoo's absence creates a more crowded outfield situation for Detroit, with notable left-handed hitters like Riley Green and Kerry Carpenter also in the mix.

Alex Cobb, the 37-year-old right-hander for the Detroit Tigers, is set to miss about a month due to right hip inflammation, as confirmed by manager A.J. Hinch. The former All-Star, who inked a one-year, $15 million deal in December, is unlikely to return in time for the season opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 27.

Cobb received a platelet-rich plasma injection last week after hip issues arose while increasing his throwing volume for spring training. After undergoing surgery on his left hip following the 2023 season, he only made three starts for the Cleveland Guardians in 2024, achieving a 2-1 record with a 2.76 ERA. Over his career, Cobb holds a 79-76 record with a 3.84 ERA across 233 starts with several teams including the Tampa Bay Rays and San Francisco Giants.

The Detroit Tigers have shown strong momentum heading into the offseason following their remarkable second half of the previous season, where they clawed back to secure a wild card playoff spot. However, the much-anticipated roster improvements have been minimal, with only two one-year contracts signed: second baseman Gleyber Torres and starting pitcher Alex Cobb. While Torres may boost the batting lineup, Cobb's injury history raises concerns about his impact on the rotation, which faced similar issues last year.

Detroit is still pursuing upgrades, notably eyeing Houston Astros' Alex Bregman to strengthen the third base position. A key suggestion from Jim Bowden of The Athletic is to re-sign Jack Flaherty, a one-time Tiger, who showcased significant potential last season. Despite health concerns, a contract similar to those offered to other pitchers could facilitate his return, potentially enhancing the Tigers' playoff aspirations.

The MLB offseason has been subdued for the Detroit Tigers, following a promising end to the previous season where they reached the playoffs and showed significant progress. Expectations were high that the team would bolster its roster, especially after a notable sweep of the Houston Astros in the Wild Card round. Key areas of concern included adding power to their batting lineup and enhancing their pitching depth behind ace Tarik Skubal.

The Tigers did make strides, notably signing second baseman Gleyber Torres from the New York Yankees, although his addition raises questions about team composition as he effectively replaces Spencer Torkelson. The team also signed veteran pitcher Alex Cobb on a one-year deal, but concerns linger about his health after a limited prior season. Critics have expressed disappointment over the Tigers' offseason activities, suggesting that more aggressive moves are needed before Spring Training.

ESPN's Bradford Doolittle offered a glimmer of hope, predicting that the Tigers might acquire star third baseman Alex Bregman, citing payroll flexibility and the potential for strategic versatility within the infield. However, the Tigers have yet to adjust their offers accordingly, leaving fans eager to see if they can secure a deal that would significantly enhance their chances in the upcoming season.

Tarik Skubal, the American League Cy Young Award recipient, has signed a one-year contract with the Detroit Tigers worth $10.15 million, avoiding salary arbitration. The 28-year-old left-hander expressed his enthusiasm for playing in Detroit and preparing for the upcoming season. Skubal led the league with 18 wins, a 2.39 ERA, and 228 strikeouts last season, securing his status as the league's top pitcher.

The Tigers are gearing up for spring training, which begins on February 12 in Lakeland, Florida, and Skubal is optimistic about the team's prospects, especially after significant roster additions including two-time All-Star Gleyber Torres.