The Detroit Tigers are getting a much-needed boost to their pitching staff this weekend, as starter Casey Mize is set to return from the injured list to take the mound against the Toronto Blue Jays on Saturday.
Mize, a 2025 All-Star, has been sidelined since late April after leaving a start against the Atlanta Braves with a right adductor strain. Prior to the injury, he was in top form, posting a stellar 2.90 ERA over 31 innings while recording a career-high 10.2 strikeouts per nine innings—a sign that his arsenal is as sharp as ever.
His return comes at a critical time for the Tigers, who have been hit hard by pitching injuries this season. The list of sidelined arms includes ace Tarik Skubal (elbow surgery), future Hall of Famer Justin Verlander (hip inflammation), and top prospect Jackson Jobe (Tommy John surgery), while Reese Olson is out for the season with a shoulder injury. Mize's presence on the bump brings some stability to a rotation that has been forced to lean heavily on its depth.
But Mize isn't the only pitcher making a comeback this weekend. The Tigers also activated right-hander Connor Seabold from the 15-day injured list ahead of Friday's series opener against the Blue Jays. Seabold, who was sidelined with left ankle inflammation, has made eight appearances for Detroit this season, pitching to a 4.09 ERA over 11 innings. His return adds another reliable arm to the bullpen as the team looks to grind through a grueling stretch.
To clear a spot on the roster for Seabold, the Tigers optioned right-handed pitcher Ricky Vanasco to Triple-A Toledo. Vanasco appeared in four games for Detroit but struggled, allowing seven earned runs, including two outings in mop-up duty during the recent series against the New York Mets.
With Mize and Seabold back in the fold, the Tigers are hoping to turn the tide and keep their season on track. For fans, this weekend's series against the Blue Jays offers a glimpse of what a healthier Detroit pitching staff can do—and maybe a reminder that every great comeback starts with a strong arm and a fresh start.