The Detroit Tigers keep inching toward full strength for the first time this season, but that injury bug just won’t let go. Now, rookie starter Jackson Jobe has landed on the 15-day injured list with a Grade 1 strain of the flexor tendon in his right elbow.
This comes right after outfielder Matt Vierling hit the 10-day IL with recurring right shoulder inflammation. The Tigers had a ready replacement for Vierling, but Jobe’s situation feels trickier. So, what’s really going on here?
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Jackson Jobe’s Injury and Its Impact
Jobe, who’s been a bright spot as a rookie starter, put together a solid debut so far. He’s sitting at 4-1 with a 4.22 ERA over 10 starts—pretty good numbers, even if his strikeout rate isn’t eye-popping.
The Tigers have done well with him on the mound. They actually won his first eight starts, which, weirdly enough, hadn’t happened in Major League Baseball since 2001.
Signs of Trouble
But there were hints that something wasn’t right. After a loss to the Guardians on May 23, Jobe admitted he wasn’t feeling his best physically.
Things looked even more concerning during his next start against the Giants, when his velocity dipped. Manager A.J. Hinch noticed, and after Jobe reported soreness, the team sent him for an immediate evaluation.
Comparisons and Timetable for Return
The Tigers haven’t shared a timeline for Jobe’s return. Still, Mariners All-Star starter Logan Gilbert had a similar Grade 1 flexor strain and started a Minor League rehab assignment just a few weeks after getting hurt.
If Jobe’s recovery goes the same way, he might be back around the All-Star break in mid-July. Of course, that’s just a guess—these things can be unpredictable.
Replacement Options for the Tigers
With Jobe out, the Tigers need someone to fill his spot in the rotation. They’ve got a few options, but none are exactly perfect.
Sawyer Gipson-Long
Sawyer Gipson-Long, their No. 29 prospect, seems like a logical pick. He’s on the 60-day IL but had a nice run in September 2023 before Tommy John and hip surgeries.
He just tossed 5 1/3 solid innings in a rehab start for Triple-A Toledo, striking out five and giving up only one run. The Tigers are bringing him to Kansas City for a bullpen session before making a call.
Dylan Smith
There’s also Dylan Smith, who just got called up from Triple-A Toledo for his Major League debut. Smith, a former third-rounder, switched from starting to relieving, and it’s worked out.
He’s racked up 32 strikeouts over 22 1/3 innings between Double-A Erie and Toledo. His first-pitch strikes, added velocity, and a sharp sweeper have made him a real asset in the bullpen.
Manager A.J. Hinch’s Perspective
Manager A.J. Hinch says it’s important not to rush any judgment about Jobe’s injury or his return. He wants to rely on the medical staff and pitching coaches to make sure Jobe recovers safely.
Hinch also showed some empathy—he knows how tough it is for a young player to deal with this kind of setback.
The Tigers have shown a lot of resilience this season, even when things haven’t gone their way.
Jackson Jobe’s injury definitely hurts. It’s a big setback, no way around it.
Still, the team has some promising options to step up. Sawyer Gipson-Long or Dylan Smith could get the call, or maybe someone else surprises us.
The Tigers just have to dig deep and keep pushing for a strong finish. If you want the full scoop on Jobe’s injury and what’s next, check out the article on MLB.com.
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