The Tigers have released outfielder Austin Slater, according to several Tigers beat writers (including the Detroit Free Press’ Evan Petzold). Slater was in camp on a minor league contract, and as an Article XX(B) free agent, the first of his three opt-out clauses fell this weekend. As per Petzold, Slater exercised his opt-out, and the Tigers chose to part ways with the outfielder rather than add him to the 40-man roster.
It is possible Slater could soon re-sign with Detroit, if this release was something of a handshake agreement just to get past the first Article XX(B) deadline. Or, it might be that the Tigers are willing to let Slater go since they’re satisfied with their right-handed hitting depth options. While a Detroit lineup heavy in left-handed bats could get another lefty swinger if top prospect Kevin McGonigle makes the team, the Tigers have Matt Vierling, Jahmai Jones, and Javier Baez set for platoon or bench duty as right-handed hitters.
Slater is entering his age-33 season, and now looking for a job in what would be his tenth MLB season. The majority of that time was spent with San Francisco, but Slater has since bounced around since the Giants dealt him to the Reds in July 2024. Slater has seen time in the bigs with the Giants, Reds, Orioles, White Sox, and Yankees over the last two seasons, with only a .212/.299/.314 slash line to show for 372 plate appearances. Injuries also impacted his 2025 season, as Slater spent time on the injured list with both a meniscus tear in his right knee and a left hamstring strain.
The chances of a potential reunion with Slater and the Tigers may hinge on how much interest Slater can find on the open market. Depending on other roster cuts or perhaps an injury or two, Slater might be able to find another job (and a clearer path to big league playing time) on another team. If nothing materializes after he tests the market, Slater could be open to returning to Detroit’s farm system.
If he can hand it in tomorrow it’ll be all right.
Good one, Preppie
Might be the first guy I’ve seen on BRef whose second position is “Pinch Hitter”
Not even, DH
I saw your comment and immediately thought of Matt Stairs. Turns out that’s what his second position is too lol
John Vander Wal has pinch hitter as his first listed position.
Good. He had nothing to offer that was better than what they already had.
Harsh.
He looked OK in spring training, but honestly, the Tigers did not have a spot for him on the 40. I suspect he’ll get signed by somebody, but if not I think he fits in Toledo’s OF until he’s needed. Trei Cruz is probably the Tiger’s #1 depth piece for the OF. He’s already on the 40 man.
Dance with the one you brought…Jones stays and Julks and Trei are ready at AAA after having better spring training showings.
The Rays seem to love stockpiling AAAA outfielders. Maybe there is room on their roster, as long as he promises not to hit over .200.
The Ray’s seem to have a lot of what ifs in the outfield this year. Simpson will be good if he gets on base and Mullins if he returns to form. Juries out on the others like Deluca. If their OF’ers contribute then they might surprise in the AL East because the rotation looks pretty good. The Ray’s are one of those teams that always seem to surprise.