Tigers Send Promising Pitcher Dylan Smith to Minor League Camp

Manager A.J. Hinch explains the early move as an opportunity for more development

Mar. 2, 2026 at 11:15pm

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The Detroit Tigers have sent promising young pitcher Dylan Smith, who made his MLB debut last season, back to minor league spring training camp. Manager A.J. Hinch said the move is not uncommon and is an opportunity for Smith to get more playing time and coaching than he would in the major league camp.

Why it matters

Smith is considered a rising star in the Tigers' system, and this early assignment to the minors raises questions about his chances of making the opening day roster. However, Hinch emphasized that the decision is not a reflection on Smith's talent, but rather a chance to further develop his skills, especially his dynamic fastball.

The details

Smith, the Tigers' third-round pick in 2021, made his MLB debut last season, going 1-0 with a 1.38 ERA in seven relief appearances. In 2.1 innings of spring training this year, he gave up four hits but no runs, striking out one and not walking a batter. Hinch cited the need for more fastball throwers in the Tigers' bullpen as a factor in the decision to send Smith to minor league camp.

  • On March 1, 2026, the Tigers sent Smith to minor league spring training camp.

The players

A.J. Hinch

The manager of the Detroit Tigers.

Dylan Smith

A promising young pitcher in the Tigers' system who made his MLB debut last season.

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What they’re saying

“We're not opposed to making roster decisions early in spring”

— A.J. Hinch, Manager, Detroit Tigers

What’s next

The Tigers will continue to evaluate Smith's development in minor league camp, with the goal of bringing him back to the major league roster later in the season.

The takeaway

This early assignment to the minors is not a setback for Smith, but rather an opportunity for the Tigers to help him further refine his skills, especially his electric fastball, before potentially bringing him back to the big league club later in the year.