A former Detroit Tigers infielder has signed with one of the top teams in the American League.
In recent weeks, several ex-Tigers have been on the move across MLB as they look for new opportunities.
Earlier this week, former Tigers left-handed pitcher Joey Wentz was designated for assignment by the Minnesota Twins, meaning he’s likely to find a new team soon. Similarly, former Tigers infielder Sergio Alcantara was released by the San Francisco Giants last weekend. Alcantara has reportedly chosen free agency and is now free to sign with any club.
Meanwhile, another former Tigers infielder from last season has landed with a new team after being designated for assignment by the Philadelphia Phillies at the end of last month.
Ex-Tigers Infielder Buddy Kennedy Signs With Toronto Blue Jays
Former Detroit Tigers infielder Buddy Kennedy signed a minor league deal with the Toronto Blue Jays on Wednesday, according to his MiLB.com player profile.
The 26-year-old was immediately assigned to the Blue Jays’ Triple-A team, the Buffalo Bisons. Kennedy’s 2025 season has been eventful.
He started the year with the Philadelphia Phillies’ Triple-A affiliate, the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, where he also spent part of 2024. In 61 games with Lehigh Valley, Kennedy hit .283 with eight home runs and 40 RBIs.
The Phillies promoted him to the majors on June 19, but designated him for assignment just 11 days later. During that brief MLB stint, he played in four games, going hitless in seven plate appearances, with two strikeouts and one walk.
After being DFA’d, the Phillies outrighted Kennedy back to Triple-A on July 5. However, he opted for free agency, which led to his signing with the Blue Jays organization. Despite solid minor league numbers, Kennedy has yet to find sustained success at the major league level.
Tigers fans saw glimpses of his potential last season when he hit .200 with one home run and four RBIs in six games with Detroit. Yet in the minors, he posted a .234 average with three homers and 14 RBIs.
His offensive game didn’t fully click until his time with the Phillies’ system. Now with Toronto, Kennedy hopes to impress the front office and earn a call-up, as he continues to carve out his place in the majors.
