Casey Mize ready for contract year with Tigers

The 28-year-old right-hander prepares to enter free agency after the 2026 season.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Detroit Tigers right-hander Casey Mize had an All-Star season in 2025 and is now preparing to enter free agency after the 2026 season. Mize, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 draft, finally put it all together last season and is looking to build on that success, though he isn't framing this season around becoming a free agent for the first time.

Why it matters

Mize's performance this season could position him for a lucrative contract when he hits free agency, but the 28-year-old is focused on continuing to improve and help the Tigers win games rather than worrying about his impending free agency.

The details

Mize won't frame what happens next around becoming a free agent, but his measured mindset doesn't change the reality of his situation. This could be his final season with the Tigers, and it's an opportunity for Mize to get paid. He secured a $6.15 million salary in his final year of salary arbitration. Mize has been in the Tigers organization since June 2018 and made his MLB debut in August 2020, dealing with underperformance and injuries over the past five-plus years. In 2025, Mize experienced the best stretch of his tenure with the Tigers, registering a 2.63 ERA in his first 15 starts and earning his first All-Star selection.

  • Mize made his MLB debut in August 2020.
  • Mize underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2022 to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow.
  • In 2025, Mize registered a 2.63 ERA in his first 15 starts and was selected to his first All-Star game.
  • Mize secured a $6.15 million salary in his final year of salary arbitration for the 2026 season.
  • Mize will become a free agent after the 2026 season.

The players

Casey Mize

A 28-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Detroit Tigers who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 MLB draft.

A.J. Hinch

The manager of the Detroit Tigers.

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What they’re saying

“I'm certainly aware of it. I've had people ask me, 'Does it add more pressure?' It feels like another year to me.”

— Casey Mize (Yahoo Sports)

“I think he proved a lot to himself last year. Both mentally and physically, he's in as good a place as I've seen him entering camp.”

— A.J. Hinch, Manager (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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