Tigers Daily Report
May 08, 2026
Executive Summary
The Tigers have lost nine of their last 13 games after getting swept at home by the Boston Red Sox this week, setting up a critical road matchup with Kansas City as Detroit is without four members of its five-man Opening Day rotation because of injuries or suspension.
Top Story
Tigers Battle Rotation Crisis Heading into Kansas City Series
The Detroit Tigers are reeling coming into a weekend series against the host Kansas City Royals that begins on Friday after being swept in three games by the visiting Boston Red Sox. The Tigers' pitching depth is severely tested: Tarik Skubal underwent surgery this week to remove loose bodies from his pitching elbow. Casey Mize (adductor strain) and Justin Verlander (hip inflammation) are on the injured list, and Framber Valdez is serving a five-game suspension for hitting Boston's Trevor Story with a pitch. Keider Montero will be the starting pitcher for the Detroit Tigers, with the 23-year-old making a solid start to the season with a 2-2 record with a 3.48 ERA over 33.2 innings and a 1.010 WHIP.
Source: ScoresandStats.com
Around the Club
Injuries — Torres was placed on the 10-day injured list due to a left oblique strain, while Justin Verlander threw a latest bullpen at close to full intensity, topping out at 94 mph on fastball, and could face hitters over the weekend. Source: Heavy.com
Roster — Zack Short cleared waivers and was sent outright to Triple-A Toledo, with the option to decline the assignment and elect free agency. Source: CBS Sports
Game Preview — Detroit currently occupies second place in the AL Central with an 18-20 record, while Kansas City is in fourth spot with a 17-20 record, concluding their four-game series against the Cleveland Guardians on Thursday and enjoying their best spell of the season with 10 wins from the last 14. Source: TotalProSports
Quick Hits
- Dillon Dingler has racked up 28 hits, a team-best for the Tigers.
- Bobby Witt Jr. is 13 for 42 with a double and three home runs over the last 10 games.
- The Tigers have the fifth-ranked team on-base percentage in the AL at .326.
Next Game
Kansas City Royals — Friday, May 8 at 7:40 p.m. ET, Kauffman Stadium
Tigers Daily Report — May 08, 2026