BREAKING: Tigers Reveal Truth Behind Kerry Carpenter’s 8-Game Disappearance

Kerry Carpenter is currently in his fourth MLB season with the Detroit Tigers, having debuted in 2022.

Over his first three seasons, Carpenter primarily faced right-handed pitchers and thrived in those matchups, consistently taking advantage of the platoon edge. In 2024, despite playing in only 87 games, he posted a .284 batting average, a .932 OPS, and hit 18 home runs. He also made a major impact in the postseason, launching a three-run homer in Game 2 of the ALDS against the Guardians.

Now in 2025, Carpenter has been seeing more at-bats against both righties and lefties. While his overall numbers have slightly dipped, he remains a productive force. On June 29, during a road matchup with the Twins, he injured his right hamstring while rounding the bases on an RBI triple in the fifth inning and was promptly removed from the game. The Tigers placed him on the 10-day injured list as a precaution.

As of Tuesday’s series opener against the Rays, the Tigers announced Carpenter is progressing through his return-to-play running program. He’s also been swinging the bat and participating in defensive drills daily.

In 78 games this season—his first as a full-time player—Carpenter is hitting .257 with a .780 OPS, 16 home runs, and 32 RBIs. He’s been a vital part of a Tigers lineup that ranks among the league’s best, averaging five runs per game, tied for fifth in the majors.

With Detroit leading MLB with a 58–34 record, Carpenter’s offensive contributions have been a major factor in their success atop the American League.