Tigers Sign Colin Poche To Minor League Deal

Veteran reliever gets new opportunity with Detroit organization

Feb. 26, 2026 at 1:26am

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The Detroit Tigers have signed veteran left-handed reliever Colin Poche to a minor league contract. Poche, who has struggled with his command in recent seasons, will report to Triple-A Toledo and look to work his way back to the major leagues.

Why it matters

Poche has shown flashes of effectiveness at the MLB level in the past, but his recent control issues have prevented him from sticking on a big-league roster. The Tigers are taking a low-risk chance that they can help Poche rediscover his form and potentially contribute out of their bullpen later this season.

The details

Poche, 32, made 13 appearances with the Washington Nationals last season, allowing 14 runs in just 9.1 innings. He also struggled at the Triple-A level with the Mets' affiliate. This offseason, Poche pitched in the Puerto Rican Winter League, giving up six runs in 6.2 innings. Despite his recent struggles, Poche has a career 3.63 ERA in 208.1 MLB innings, mostly with the Tampa Bay Rays from 2019-2024. He's known for his over-the-top arm angle and ability to induce pop-ups with his four-seam fastball when he's commanding his pitches well.

  • Poche made 13 appearances with the Nationals in 2025.
  • Poche had a one-game cameo with the Mets on June 28, 2025.
  • Poche pitched in the Puerto Rican Winter League this offseason.

The players

Colin Poche

A 32-year-old left-handed relief pitcher who has spent time in the major leagues with the Rays, Nationals, and Mets.

Detroit Tigers

The professional baseball team based in Detroit, Michigan that competes in the American League of Major League Baseball.

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What’s next

Poche will report to Triple-A Toledo to start the 2026 season and look to regain his control and effectiveness in order to earn a call-up to the major league roster later in the year.

The takeaway

The Tigers are taking a low-risk flier on veteran reliever Colin Poche, hoping he can rediscover the form that made him an effective bullpen piece earlier in his career. If Poche can improve his command, he could provide valuable middle relief depth for Detroit as the season progresses.