Tigers Pitcher Jackson Jobe on Track for 'Important Innings' in 2026

Jobe offers encouraging update on rehab from Tommy John surgery, could return to mound in mid-April

Mar. 3, 2026 at 6:31am

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Detroit Tigers right-handed pitcher Jackson Jobe provided an optimistic update on his recovery from Tommy John surgery, saying he could start throwing bullpens off a mound in about six weeks and is aiming to pitch "important innings" for the Tigers later this season. Jobe, the team's 2021 first-round draft pick, last pitched on May 28 before undergoing surgery on June 16 to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow.

Why it matters

Jobe's return would provide a significant boost to the Tigers' pitching staff in the second half of the 2026 season, as the team looks to build on its progress and make a playoff push. The 22-year-old was the team's top pitching prospect before the injury, and his successful recovery could be a key factor in the Tigers' fortunes this year.

The details

Jobe is currently going through a long-toss rehab program, throwing up to 105 feet three times a week. He said he could start throwing bullpens off a mound in about six weeks, with a potential return to the mound in mid-April. After the bullpen sessions, Jobe will need a few live batting practice sessions and rehab outings before rejoining the Tigers' active roster, but he remains optimistic about his timeline. Jobe has not suffered any setbacks in his recovery so far.

  • Jobe last pitched for the Tigers on May 28, 2026.
  • Jobe underwent Tommy John surgery on June 16, 2026.
  • Jobe could start throwing bullpens off a mound in about six weeks (mid-April 2026).
  • Jobe is aiming to pitch "important innings" for the Tigers later in the 2026 season.

The players

Jackson Jobe

A right-handed pitcher for the Detroit Tigers and the team's first-round draft pick in 2021.

Scott Harris

The president of baseball operations for the Detroit Tigers.

Justin Verlander

A veteran pitcher who is providing Jobe with tips and advice on how to work hard and recover from his injury.

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What they’re saying

“I think it's like, starting in mid-April, is when I'll be on the mound.”

— Jackson Jobe

“We expect him to be back in 2026. It's hard to forecast the actual date, but we expect it to be a boost for our roster in the second half.”

— Scott Harris, President of Baseball Operations, Detroit Tigers

“Knock on wood – everything's been going as well as it could. I'm just trying to keep it that way and not change a thing. The program that we have has been great.”

— Jackson Jobe

What’s next

Jobe will continue his long-toss rehab program and could start throwing bullpens off a mound in about six weeks, with a potential return to the mound in mid-April 2026.

The takeaway

Jobe's recovery from Tommy John surgery appears to be progressing well, and his potential return to the Tigers' rotation in the second half of the 2026 season could provide a significant boost to the team's playoff aspirations. His positive outlook and the support he's receiving from veteran pitchers like Justin Verlander suggest the Tigers are taking a cautious but optimistic approach to his rehabilitation.