The Detroit Tigers are expected to be one of the contenders looking to bolster ahead of the MLB trade deadline next month. The Tigers will reportedly be in the market for a right-handed power bat (maybe at third base) and a bullpen arm.
This season, Detroit’s bullpen has held its own, posting a 3.74 ERA and 23 saves. However, the Tigers' relievers aren’t racking up many strikeouts as they have the third-worst K/9 in the majors (7.59).
To improve the bullpen, Detroit has made a couple of changes in recent weeks, which include releasing John Brebbia and claiming Carlos Hernandez off waivers. That said, the moves have not stopped there for the Tigers.
Tigers Part Ways With Matt Gage After Short MLB Stint
According to Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic, the Tigers designated left-handed reliever Matt Gage for assignment on Thursday to make room for Dietrich Enns.
Tigers have DFA’d LHP Matt Gage to make room for Dietrich Enns
— Cody Stavenhagen (@CodyStavenhagen) June 26, 2025
Enns was reportedly called up from Triple-A earlier week, and Detroit needed to clear a spot on the 40-man roster for him. The 34-year-old Enns is also a lefty who last pitched in the majors in 2021.
The 32-year-old Gage was the odd man out despite pitching well out of the bullpen in his short stint in the Motor City. The southpaw reliever allowed seven hits, two walks, and recorded three strikeouts in 5.2 innings pitched.
Across six relief appearances, Gage had a 0.00 ERA, despite opponents hitting .304 at the plate against him, along with a .350 BAbip.
The left-handed pitcher joined the Tigers on a minor league deal this offseason and pitched well at Triple-A Toledo – 1.67 ERA in 23 appearances (one start).
Nonetheless, with Gage being DFA’d, Detroit can trade or place him over the next five days. The southpaw also doesn’t have any more minor league options, and could elect free agency if he gets through waivers unclaimed.
Given his success at Triple-A and briefly in the majors, it wouldn't be surprising if another team takes a shot on Gage, especially with there always being a need for bullpen arms.