Mariners Sign Former Tigers Reliever to Minor League Deal

Brendan White joins Seattle's organization after spending six seasons in the Detroit system.

Feb. 26, 2026 at 9:54am

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The Seattle Mariners have signed right-handed relief pitcher Brendan White to a minor league contract, according to an announcement from the Atlantic League's Lancaster Stormers. White, 27, spent the past six seasons in the Detroit Tigers organization before finishing 2025 in independent baseball.

Why it matters

The Mariners have built their roster around pitching depth, and the addition of White provides them with more experienced bullpen options as they look to contend in the AL West. White has major league experience, having appeared in 33 games for the Tigers in 2023, but has struggled with injuries and command issues in recent seasons.

The details

White was originally drafted by the Tigers in the 26th round in 2019 out of Siena College. He reached the majors in 2023, posting a 5.09 ERA in 40 2/3 innings with 44 strikeouts and 15 walks. However, injuries and command problems led to his removal from the Tigers' 40-man roster, and he spent 2025 in independent ball before signing with the Mariners.

  • White was drafted by the Tigers in 2019.
  • He reached the majors with Detroit in 2023.
  • White was non-tendered by the Tigers after the 2024 season.
  • He spent 2025 in the Atlantic League before signing with the Mariners.

The players

Brendan White

A 27-year-old right-handed relief pitcher who spent the past six seasons in the Detroit Tigers organization before signing a minor league deal with the Seattle Mariners.

Seattle Mariners

A Major League Baseball team based in Seattle, Washington, known for building their roster around pitching depth.

Detroit Tigers

A Major League Baseball team based in Detroit, Michigan, who released Brendan White after the 2024 season.

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What’s next

White will likely start the 2026 season at the Mariners' Triple-A affiliate in Tacoma as he looks to earn a spot on the major league roster.

The takeaway

The Mariners' signing of Brendan White to a minor league deal represents their continued commitment to building pitching depth, as they look to leverage his major league experience and potential to bolster their bullpen options for the upcoming season.