Former Tigers Infielder Who Played 6 Games with Detroit DFA'd for 4th Time in 2025

Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch (14) motions to the home plate umpire during a mound visit in the fourth inning of the game against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park.
Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch (14) motions to the home plate umpire during a mound visit in the fourth inning of the game against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park. | Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images

Former Detroit Tigers infielder Buddy Kennedy has continued a frustrating career path, being designated for assignment by the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday, according to FantasyPros. It is a familiar decision, with it being the fourth time it has happened just in the 2025 season.

Teams keep reaching the same conclusion that the Tigers quickly found during Kennedy's tenure. There simply isn't a Major League-level offensive ceiling for Kennedy at this point.

In limited at-bats, Kennedy has a career .178 average with two homers and 20 RBIs in 67 games, pointing to the offensive liability the former Tiger has been. In today's league, there isn't much value in having a defensive-minded piece that isn't going to contribute to the lineup. There are far too many elite defenders who can offer way more at the play than Kennedy.

It is difficult to see a path to more MLB time until this improves. If production remains at its current level, Kennedy's time is going to continue to be frustrating and come to a quick end. This does serve as further evidence that the Tigers made the right call turning the page.

Former Tigers Infielder Continues Frustrating Path After Dodgers Release

Looking at Detroit's current infield and depth options, there is zero chance of a reunion. Unless the Tigers oddly want to add more minor league depth, there isn't a fit for Kennedy or a possibility of reunion.

After leaving the Tigers, the infielder spent time with the Philadelphia Phillies, Toronto Blue Jays, and Dodgers. Each organization came to the same conclusion as Detroit, unable to keep Kennedy on the roster due to the offensive struggles.

For Los Angeles, this doesn't come as anything close to a surprise with the overload of talent at the manager's disposal. Kennedy would have needed to go on an incredible run to secure a spot in the season's final month. If the Tigers can make the expected postseason run in a wide-open American League, it is likely going to be the Dodgers waiting on the other side of the bracket.

Something to keep in mind as Detroit continues to pile up wins and establish itself as the obvious AL favorite.

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