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Tigers' Casey Mize Struggles in Spring Training Outing
Right-hander says his mechanics are off as he looks to bounce back before regular season
Mar. 14, 2026 at 5:21am
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Detroit Tigers pitcher Casey Mize had a concerning outing in a 7-5 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates in spring training, allowing six runs on six hits and four walks over three-plus innings. Mize acknowledged his mechanics are off and he needs to figure things out before the regular season starts, but said he's "not going to freak out" about the performance in an exhibition game.
Why it matters
Mize, a former top prospect, is entering a crucial contract year with the Tigers and needs to show he can be a reliable starter in the big leagues. His struggles in spring training have raised some questions about his readiness for the season, but the team and Mize remain confident he can get things right with two more starts before the regular season begins.
The details
Mize struggled with his command, walking four batters in the first two innings, including one with the bases loaded. He also gave up a two-run home run in the third inning. The Tigers used the spring training re-entry rule to remove Mize after 2.2 innings, then sent him back to the mound for the third. Despite the rough outing, Mize said he's "not going to freak out" and is looking forward to working with the coaching staff to fix his mechanics before the team's second series of the regular season against the Diamondbacks.
- Mize made his fourth appearance of the spring on March 13.
- The Tigers have two more spring training games before their regular season opener.
The players
Casey Mize
A 28-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Detroit Tigers who is entering a crucial contract year.
Mike Clevinger
A right-handed pitcher who signed a minor-league contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates after failing to stick in the big leagues the past couple of seasons.
Parker Meadows
A Tigers outfield prospect who hit a two-run single in the fifth inning to cut the Pirates' lead to 6-2.
What they’re saying
“My mechanics are off. Something is out of whack. I look forward to chatting with Robin [Lund] and Fett [Chris Fetter] to figure out what's going on. I just feel like my timing is still off. I've got to figure that out.”
— Casey Mize
“It's important that I feel good going into Arizona [against the Diamondbacks]. But I'm not going to freak out, either. It's spring training, and I'm working through some things.”
— Casey Mize
What’s next
Mize has two more spring training starts to work on his mechanics and get ready for the regular season, with his next outing scheduled against the Diamondbacks.
The takeaway
Mize's struggles in spring training are a concern for the Tigers, but the team and the pitcher remain confident he can get things right before the regular season begins. His ability to bounce back and regain his form will be crucial for Detroit's rotation this year.
