Ryan Vilade is about to embark on his third stint in the big leagues. The Detroit Tigers have called up Vilade, a versatile right-handed hitter who can play both infield and outfield positions, from Triple-A Toledo. This move was made just before Friday's series opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Comerica Park. In a corresponding move, the Tigers sent down Akil Baddoo, a left-handed hitter who's been struggling, to the Mud Hens.
A.J. Hinch, the Tigers' manager, had some positive words about Vilade's promotion: "First off, Vilade has swung the bat pretty well in Triple-A most of the year. Given the lefties, we want to get him in there, and he can defend himself against righties. Versatility helps probably just as much as the handedness. It's a reward for Ryan with what he's done." This speaks volumes about Vilade's performance and adaptability.
Vilade's previous MLB experience includes playing four games with the Tigers in early May, although he only saw two full games. In those appearances, he went 2-for-4 with a walk on May 7 and 0-for-4 with a strikeout on May 10. His initial MLB debut was with the Colorado Rockies back in September 2021, but he didn't manage to get his first hit until May 2024 with the Tigers. Now at 25, Vilade has been hitting .286 with nine home runs, 28 walks, and 70 strikeouts over 70 games for Triple-A Toledo. He learned about his promotion on Thursday afternoon and made his way to Detroit that evening. Reflecting on the call-up, Vilade shared, "It was a surprise. I was ordering some Jersey Mike's and got a call."
Versatility is a significant part of Vilade's game. He plays all three outfield positions and has infield experience. "It's fun," Vilade said about his diverse role. "Keeps you on your toes. You got to prepare every day doing multiple glove work and reps before the game. You gotta be ready, so you gotta prepare."
As for Akil Baddoo, he's already been optioned four times this season—on March 22, May 14, July 5, and now Friday. The rules state that a player can be optioned up to five times per season before they must be placed on outright assignment waivers. Baddoo, who is also 25, has been hitting just .117 with two home runs, eight walks, and 24 strikeouts in 26 games, totaling 69 plate appearances. Despite his struggles, he's making $1.55 million in 2024.
Injury updates also play a crucial role in the team's dynamics. Kerry Carpenter, an outfielder dealing with a lumbar spine stress fracture, has started light hitting activities after being sidelined for 10 days due to a setback in his recovery. Carpenter hasn't played since May 26 but was hitting .283 with eight home runs, 11 walks, and 38 strikeouts across 50 games before his injury. His return date remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, Parker Meadows, a center fielder with a right hamstring strain, has begun a return-to-play running progression along with light hitting activities. The 24-year-old elite defender hasn't played since Sunday. Meadows has a .131 batting average with three home runs, 12 walks, and 34 strikeouts in 35 games. He was hitting .364 (4-for-11) with one homer, one walk, and two strikeouts in three games before landing on the injured list. Meadows might be back in the lineup by late July or early August.
Another player on the mend is right-hander Casey Mize, who has been dealing with a left hamstring strain. Mize is playing catch daily and progressing through a return-to-play running regimen. The 27-year-old hasn't pitched since June 30, leaving a gap in the starting rotation that Keider Montero has been filling. Mize holds a 4.23 ERA with 21 walks and 58 strikeouts over 78⅔ innings in 16 starts. He is expected to return to action by late July.
This mix of call-ups, send-downs, and injury updates shows the constant juggling act that MLB teams must perform to keep their rosters competitive and players ready. Vilade's return to the majors is a testament to his hard work and versatility, while Baddoo's demotion highlights the tough nature of professional baseball. With key players like Carpenter, Meadows, and Mize working their way back from injuries, the Tigers are looking to maintain momentum and continue competing in a challenging season.
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