Tigers Activate Versatile Veteran and Demote Slumping Young Infielder
Tigers Activate Versatile Veteran and Demote Slumping Young Infielder originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Tigers reinstated Matt Vierling from the injured list Saturday, a move that gives manager A.J. Hinch added versatility and experience as Detroit keeps pace in the American League Central.
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Vierling had been sidelined since spring training with right shoulder inflammation. Now healthy, he's back in the mix as a flexible defender and right-handed bat. He started in center field Saturday against the Twins but is expected to move around—he's capable at all three outfield spots and has worked to become a viable option at third base. The Tigers will likely use him in a little bit of everything once he's fully up to speed.
Detroit Tigers center fielder Matt Vierling hits a single during the seventh inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Denis Poroy-Imagn Images
To make room, Detroit optioned Trey Sweeney to Triple-A Toledo. Sweeney, 25, was a key contributor during the Tigers' 2024 playoff push, but this season's been tougher. In 225 plate appearances, he's hitting just .221 with a .594 OPS (69 OPS+), including five doubles, a triple, and four home runs. His playing time has dipped in recent weeks, squeezed by the steady play of Zach McKinstry and a bounce-back year from Javier Baez.
Sweeney's demotion isn't a surprise, but it's a shift. He was part of the plan not long ago. Now he'll head back to Toledo to get regular at-bats and try to recalibrate. Detroit still believes in his long-term value, but they're pushing for wins now—and Vierling helps in more ways than one.
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Vierling's return gives the Tigers a little more flexibility and a little more balance. They'll take that every time.
Related: From Yankees Castoff to Tigers All-Star?
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 28, 2025, where it first appeared.
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