Tigers Boast Gold Glove Catcher, Impressive Depth in 2026

Dillon Dingler emerged as the everyday starter after an injury to Jake Rogers, earning a Gold Glove in the process.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 3:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Detroit Tigers enter the 2026 season with a strong catching corps, led by Dillon Dingler, who took over as the everyday starter in 2025 after an early-season injury to Jake Rogers. Dingler went on to have a breakout year, earning a Gold Glove award for his defensive prowess behind the plate. The Tigers also have impressive depth at the position, providing them with a solid foundation for the upcoming season.

Why it matters

The Tigers' catching situation is a key part of their roster, as a strong defensive presence behind the plate can make a significant impact on the team's overall performance. Dingler's emergence as a Gold Glove-caliber catcher, coupled with the team's depth at the position, gives the Tigers a solid foundation to build upon as they look to compete in the AL Central.

The details

Dillon Dingler, who entered the 2025 season as the backup catcher, seized the everyday job after an early-season injury to Jake Rogers. Dingler took advantage of the opportunity, putting together a standout season that culminated in him earning a Gold Glove award for his defensive prowess. The Tigers also have impressive depth at the catcher position, with Rogers and other talented prospects providing the team with multiple options behind the plate.

  • Dingler took over as the everyday starter in April 2025 after an injury to Jake Rogers.
  • Dingler went on to earn a Gold Glove award for the 2025 season.

The players

Dillon Dingler

The Detroit Tigers' starting catcher, who emerged as a Gold Glove-caliber defensive player in 2025.

Jake Rogers

The Tigers' backup catcher, who was sidelined by an early-season injury in 2025, opening the door for Dingler to take over the starting job.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's easy to forget that Dillon Dingler entered the 2025 season as the backup catcher. But an early April injury to Jake Rogers opened the door for Dingler to get everyday opportunities, and he never relinquished his hold on the job.”

— Michigan Live (wn.com)

What’s next

The Tigers will look to build on Dingler's breakout season and the team's catching depth as they prepare for the 2026 campaign.

The takeaway

The Detroit Tigers have a strong foundation at the catcher position, with Dillon Dingler emerging as a Gold Glove-caliber player and the team having impressive depth behind him. This positions the Tigers well as they look to compete in the AL Central in the upcoming season.