Jake Rogers Returns Just in Time to Catch Tarik Skubal vs. the Cardinals — Here’s What It Means
The Detroit Tigers have reinstated veteran catcher Jake Rogers from the 15-day injured list, setting the stage for him to catch ace Tarik Skubal in Monday’s opener against the St. Louis Cardinals. Rogers had been out since April 8 with a left oblique strain but is now back in action as the Tigers look to gain ground in the AL Central.
Reunited Battery
Skubal has continued to dominate in Rogers’ absence, but the duo hasn’t worked together since April 2. Now, with Rogers back behind the plate, the Tigers restore one of their most effective pitcher-catcher pairings.
Quick Highlights:
- Rogers has been activated off the IL (left oblique).
- He’s slated to catch Skubal in Monday’s game at Busch Stadium.
- Rogers hit .333 (5-for-15) during his rehab assignment with Triple-A Toledo.
- Detroit now has three healthy catchers: Rogers, Dillon Dingler, and Tomás Nido. Nido is expected to be optioned soon.
Why It Matters
Skubal has emerged as one of MLB’s top arms this season, and while he’s meshed with other catchers, his rhythm with Rogers is unique. Rogers also showed he’s in solid shape offensively, hitting .333 during his rehab stint and playing four full games without any setbacks.
Manager A.J. Hinch Weighs In
Tigers skipper A.J. Hinch hasn’t laid out a strict catching rotation but emphasized flexibility and competition at the position:
“The better guy that day is the guy we’re going to go with… Both guys will play in every series. It’s healthy to have options.”
Looking Ahead
Rogers’ return gives Detroit a stabilizing presence on defense and a strong game-caller for their rotation — especially for Skubal. With Dingler holding his own and Nido likely heading back to Triple-A, the Tigers now boast a deeper, more competitive catching corps.
Bottom Line
Jake Rogers is back, and that’s great news for Tarik Skubal and the Tigers. As they open a pivotal series against the Cardinals, Detroit regains one of its most trusted battery combinations — a potential spark as they look to build momentum.
