Get a different look at the 2026 Detroit Tigers

Free Press photographer Junfu Han presents a different look at the projected 26-man roster for the Detroit Tigers.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 10:08am

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As the Detroit Tigers prepare for the upcoming 2026 MLB season, Free Press photographer Junfu Han has captured portraits of the team's likely Opening Day roster, including superstars, All-Stars, newcomers, and familiar faces. The Tigers are aiming for their first AL Central crown since 2014 and are generating high expectations among fans.

Why it matters

The Detroit Tigers have not won their division since 2014, and their fans are eager to see the team return to contention. These player portraits provide a unique and personal look at the Tigers' projected roster, building anticipation for the upcoming season and giving fans a chance to get to know the key players.

The details

Junfu Han, a photographer for the Detroit Free Press, has captured portraits of the Detroit Tigers' likely 26-man roster for the 2026 season. The roster features a mix of established stars, such as Tarik and Riley, as well as newcomers like Framber and Kenley, and even a familiar face in Justin Verlander. These portraits give fans a different perspective on the team and help build excitement for the upcoming season, as the Tigers aim to win their first AL Central title in over a decade.

  • The Detroit Tigers are set to begin their Grapefruit League spring training games this weekend.
  • The Tigers last won the AL Central division in 2014.

The players

Tarik

A superstar player on the Detroit Tigers roster.

Riley

An All-Star player on the Detroit Tigers roster.

Framber

A newcomer to the Detroit Tigers roster.

Kenley

A newcomer to the Detroit Tigers roster.

Justin Verlander

A familiar face who has returned to the Detroit Tigers roster.

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What they’re saying

“It may be cold and dreary in Michigan as we enter the final week of February, but in the Sunshine State – Florida, you dig? – there's nothing but warm weather and good vibes as the Detroit Tigers take their first real swings of spring training this weekend.”

— Junfu Han, Free Press photographer (freep.com)

What’s next

The Detroit Tigers are set to begin their Grapefruit League spring training games this weekend, giving fans their first look at the team's projected 26-man roster for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Detroit Tigers are generating high expectations among their fans as they aim to end their division title drought and return to the playoffs. These unique player portraits provide a personal glimpse into the team's roster, helping to build anticipation for the upcoming season and giving fans a chance to get to know the key players who will be leading the charge.