Tigers Reunite with Right-Handed Pitcher Troy Watson on a Minor-League Contract
DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers have officially re-signed Troy Watson, a right-handed pitcher acquired from the Toronto Blue Jays last season. According to the team’s transactions log, the 27-year-old will return to the Tigers on a minor-league deal, continuing his journey within the organization.
Watson joined Detroit in August 2024 via a trade with Toronto that was finalized as a cash transaction. After arriving, he concluded the season at Triple-A Toledo, where he showed flashes of potential but also areas for improvement. In 29 1/3 innings pitched, he recorded a 5.83 ERA, striking out 33 batters and issuing 19 walks.
A native of the University of Northern Colorado, Watson entered professional baseball when he was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2018. Although he displayed promising talent, his career has faced setbacks due to injuries. These challenges culminated in Tommy John surgery in 2021, which sidelined him for an extended period.
Despite these hurdles, Watson’s pitching arsenal offers intrigue. Known for his mid-90s fastball, Watson complements it with a sharp slider, a sinking fastball, and an evolving changeup. His diverse pitch mix positions him as a versatile depth option for the Tigers, likely to spend time anchoring the Triple-A Toledo pitching staff in 2025, though the potential for further development remains.
Detroit Tigers’ Noteworthy Offseason Minor-League Signings
In addition to Watson, the Tigers have been active in securing minor-league talent during the offseason, re-signing several players while adding new faces to bolster organizational depth. Below are the highlights:
Bligh Madris (IF/OF) – Re-signed to maintain his versatility in the infield and outfield.
Jahmai Jones (OF) – A fresh addition, bringing speed and athleticism.
Ricky Vanasco (RHP) – Retained after showing potential on the mound.
Wilmer Flores (RHP) – A key arm with continued upside, re-signed.
Eddys Leonard (IF) – Back with the team for another season.
Dietrich Enns (LHP) – A new left-handed presence in the bullpen mix.
Jordan Balazovic (RHP) – A promising pitcher joining the system.
Ryan Miller (RHP) – Added for organizational depth.
Brian Serven (C) – A valuable catcher to add to the roster.
Brendan White (RHP) – Returning to build on his contributions.
Wilkel Hernandez (RHP) – Another re-signing to strengthen the pitching ranks.
By retaining several key players and bringing in fresh talent, the Tigers are clearly focused on building depth and maintaining competitiveness across all levels of their organization heading into the 2025 season.
