Tigers Call Up Right-Handed Outfielder Ben Malgeri for Big-League Debut Detroit — The Tigers purchased the contract of 26-year-old right-handed hitting outfielder Ben Malgeri on Tuesday, setting the stage for his major league debut against the Yankees. The move comes as the team opts to replace switch-hitting utility man Trei Cruz, who was optioned back to Triple-A Toledo. To clear a spot on the 40-man roster, right-handed reliever Burch Smith was moved to the 60-day injured list. Malgeri, expected to make his debut in Wednesday’s game against the Yankees and lefty starter Carlos Rodon, will bring a right-handed bat to a lineup that has struggled to generate consistent power. Malgeri’s journey to the majors is marked by steady performance across the minor leagues. Drafted by the Tigers in the 18th round in 2021, he never carried the label of a high-profile prospect. Over eight seasons, he spent parts of three seasons in High A and three in Double A, consistently hitting at a high level. His career .775 OPS reflects his ability to contribute at every level. This season, however, has been a breakthrough. At Triple A, Malgeri has slashed .296/.401/.496 with an .897 OPS, tallying 17 doubles, three triples, and nine home runs. His production has been especially notable against left-handed pitching, where he’s posted a .323/.430/.646 line with a 1.077 OPS. The Tigers’ decision to call up Malgeri highlights his value as a right-handed hitter in a lineup that has lacked consistent power. His ability to hit for both average and power could provide a much-needed boost, particularly against left-handed starters like Rodon. Malgeri joins a growing list of 2021 draft picks who have reached the majors.#yankees #tigers #comerica_park #carlos_rondon #ben_malgeri
Detroit Tigers Recall Ben Malgeri From Triple-A, Option Trei Cruz The Detroit Tigers made two roster adjustments on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, as they recalled outfielder Ben Malgeri from Triple-A Toledo and optioned utility player Trei Cruz to the minors. The moves came ahead of the team’s second game in a three-game series against the New York Yankees at Comerica Park. Malgeri, a 26-year-old 18th-round draft pick in 2021, is expected to bolster the lineup against left-handed pitchers, a strength highlighted by his recent performance. Malgeri’s call-up follows a strong 2026 season at the Triple-A level, where he appeared in 65 games. He posted a .298 batting average with nine home runs, 38 walks, and 74 strikeouts while maintaining an .897 OPS. Notably, he excelled against left-handed hurlers, batting .322 with a 1.007 OPS in 79 plate appearances. His versatility across all three outfield positions makes him a valuable asset, though he primarily occupies corner spots. The Tigers’ decision to bring up Malgeri coincided with their need to manage the roster for the upcoming series. The team faced left-handed starters Carlos Rodoń and Ryan Weathers in the next two games, making Malgeri’s experience a key factor. To create space, the Tigers optioned Cruz to the minors and placed right-handed reliever Burch Smith on the 60-day injured list. Cruz, a utility player, had been part of the 26-man roster but was moved to open a spot. This roster shift underscores the Tigers’ strategic approach to balancing depth and competition. Malgeri’s ability to perform against left-handed pitching aligns with the team’s immediate needs, as the Yankees’ rotation features multiple left-handed starters.#detroit_tigers #new_york_yankees #triple_a_toledo #ben_malgeri #trei_cruz
