Burch Smith joins Tigers, reunites with Chris Fetter after 12 years

The right-hander signs a one-year, $7 million contract with Detroit.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Burch Smith, a right-handed pitcher, has signed a one-year, $7 million contract with the Detroit Tigers. This move reunites Smith with Tigers pitching coach Chris Fetter, whom he worked with 12 years ago in the minor leagues.

Why it matters

Smith's signing provides the Tigers with additional pitching depth and experience as they look to improve on their 2025 season. Fetter and Smith's prior working relationship could help Smith quickly acclimate to the Tigers' organization and pitching staff.

The details

Smith, 32, is coming off a 2025 season where he made 25 appearances (12 starts) for the San Francisco Giants, posting a 4.78 ERA. He has previous MLB experience with the Padres, Royals, and Giants over his 8-year career. Fetter and Smith worked together in the minor leagues with the Padres organization in 2011.

  • Smith signed his one-year, $7 million contract with the Tigers on February 10, 2026.

The players

Burch Smith

A 32-year-old right-handed pitcher who has signed a one-year, $7 million contract with the Detroit Tigers.

Chris Fetter

The pitching coach for the Detroit Tigers, who previously worked with Burch Smith in the minor leagues 12 years ago.

Detroit Tigers

The Major League Baseball team that has signed Burch Smith to a one-year, $7 million contract.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I was probably weeks away from never pitching again,”

— Burch Smith (wn.com)

What’s next

The Tigers will look for Smith to provide veteran leadership and stability to their pitching staff as they aim to improve on their 2025 season performance.

The takeaway

Burch Smith's reunion with pitching coach Chris Fetter could provide a boost to the Tigers' pitching staff as they seek to build on their previous season and compete in the AL Central division.