The Detroit Tigers are making moves again—and this time, it's a familiar face returning to the Motor City. In a roster shuffle driven by injuries and a need for flexibility, the Tigers have signed infielder Zack Short to a Major League contract, bringing him back to the big league club just days after he was designated for assignment.

Short was immediately inserted into the starting lineup for Friday's game against the Kansas City Royals. To clear a spot on the active roster, the Tigers optioned infielder Jace Jung—a former first-round pick—back to Triple-A Toledo.

It’s been a whirlwind week for Short. Originally acquired from the Washington Nationals earlier this month, he was briefly added to the 26-man roster before being designated for assignment just two days later. After clearing waivers, he remained in the organization and has now signed a one-year MLB deal to rejoin the active roster.

So, what’s behind the quick reversal? Versatility.

Short has never been known for his bat—he’s hit just .171 with a .564 OPS across 243 career MLB games. But his defensive flexibility is exactly what the Tigers need right now. A natural shortstop, Short also has extensive experience at second and third base, giving manager A.J. Hinch a reliable defensive option while Gleyber Torres recovers from a left oblique strain.

The Tigers initially hoped Torres could avoid the injured list, which factored into Short’s earlier removal. Once Torres was officially placed on the IL, Detroit wasted no time bringing Short back into the fold.

On the flip side, the move sends Jace Jung back to the minors after a brief but promising stint. In eight games with the Tigers, Jung went 1-for-6 with two walks. While his opportunities were limited, the organization was encouraged by his plate discipline and approach. However, Detroit rarely used him in the field, mostly keeping him in a designated hitter role—a factor that likely influenced Friday’s decision.

For a Tigers team navigating injuries and constant lineup adjustments, Short’s glove-first versatility has once again earned him a spot on the big league roster.