The Tigers have parted ways with a veteran outfielder who had a brief stint in Detroit earlier this season.
With the MLB trade deadline looming at the end of the month, teams will soon start identifying as either buyers or sellers depending on their current position.
The Detroit Tigers are expected to be buyers as they aim to make a strong push for the AL pennant this fall. According to recent reports, they’re targeting bullpen help and potentially a seasoned third baseman.
But before making any major trade moves, the Tigers have made some adjustments to their minor league roster, including the release of the veteran outfielder.
Detroit Sends Struggling Outfielder Manuel Margot Packing
According to MiLB.com’s transaction log, the Tigers have unexpectedly released 10-year MLB veteran Manuel Margot from Triple-A Toledo.
The 30-year-old signed a minor league deal with Detroit on March 24 after failing to make the Milwaukee Brewers’ Opening Day roster. Margot saw limited action with the Tigers, appearing in six games and batting .316 with three RBI.
His stint was soon interrupted by left knee soreness, landing him on the 10-day injured list on April 8. After a three-week absence, Margot began a rehab assignment in Triple-A and was officially activated on May 7—but was immediately outrighted to the minors.
According to the latest transactions report, the Tigers have released veteran outfielder Manuel Margot and signed left-handed pitcher Devin Smeltzer.
Smeltzer, who last appeared in the majors with the Marlins in 2023, had been pitching in the Mexican League earlier this season before landing this opportunity with Detroit.
— Tigers ML Report (@tigersMLreport), July 8, 2025
While playing 36 games with the Toledo Mud Hens, Margot struggled offensively, hitting just .211/.299/.266 with one home run and 16 RBI. The veteran’s production has dipped in recent years, largely due to a major patellar tendon strain he suffered in his right knee back in 2022, an injury that has significantly impacted his game.
Back in 2022 with the Tampa Bay Rays, Margot posted a solid .274 batting average with four home runs and 47 RBI. He hit .264 with similar power numbers in 2023 over 99 games, but saw a decline last year with the Twins, batting .238. His struggles continued this season in the minors.
As the trade deadline approaches, it remains to be seen whether Margot can catch on with another team and work to reestablish his value.
