Tigers Daily Report
May 22, 2026
Executive Summary
The Tigers sit at a deflating 20-29 record, fourth in the AL Central and a full 7.5 games back of the Cleveland Guardians, facing a crucial stretch ahead as they look to recover from recent injuries and offensive struggles.
Top Story
Anderson Earns Rotation Consideration After Strong Return
Making his first start of the season, Anderson was limited to 63 pitches, but he certainly made the most of them, blanking the Guardians while logging a career-high seven strikeouts. The 32-year-old Anderson certainly seems to have earned another look in Detroit's rotation after Wednesday's outing -- he'd currently line up for a home matchup with the Angels. After giving up 10 runs in his first 11.1 innings this year, Anderson has posted a sparkling 1.77 ERA over his last nine appearances (20.1 innings).
Source: CBS Sports
Around the Club
-
Injuries — Justin Verlander (hip) completed a four-inning, 62-pitch simulated game Wednesday. In lieu of a rehab assignment, Verlander has remained with the Tigers and has been getting gradually stretched back out through simulated games. Source: CBS Sports
-
Injuries — Troy Melton (elbow) struck out six and allowed one earned run on two hits and no walks over five innings Tuesday in his rehab start with Single-A Lakeland. Melton remained in dominant form as he continues to work his way back from the right elbow strain that has kept him on the shelf all season. Source: CBS Sports
-
Prospects — Jobe (elbow) threw a bullpen session Tuesday. Jobe continues to progress in his recovery from the Tommy John surgery he underwent last June. The 23-year-old isn't expected to be back with Detroit until late this season or the start of 2027, but he's avoided setbacks thus far as he builds up his throwing program. Source: CBS Sports
-
Roster — Spencer Torkelson homered in Tuesday's loss to Cleveland, but he's struggled in May with a .136/.235/.288 batting line and 42.6 percent strikeout rate. Colt Keith will cover first base for the Tigers while Torkelson regroups. Source: CBS Sports
Quick Hits
- Tarik Skubal has already progressed from playing catch to throwing a bullpen session at Comerica Park less than two weeks after elbow surgery.
Next Game
Los Angeles Angels — Tuesday, May 26, 6:40 PM ET, Comerica Park
Tigers Daily Report — May 22, 2026