Detroit Tigers Recall Catcher to Replace Dillon Dingler
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The Tigers recalled catcher Eduardo Valencia after Dillon Dingler suffered a hand contusion. Dingler is day to day and not headed to the injured list.
The Detroit Tigers have made a roster move following Dillon Dingler’s hand injury, but there is encouraging news regarding their All-Star catcher.
On Thursday, the Tigers announced they have recalled catcher Eduardo Valencia from Triple-A Toledo. To make room on the 26-man roster, the club designated outfielder Jahmai Jones for assignment.
The promotion marks the first Major League call-up of Valencia’s professional career. The 27-year-old, who will wear No. 32, has persevered through a lengthy climb to the big leagues after beginning his professional career in 2018. His breakout came last season, when he posted a .941 OPS over 103 games split between Double-A Erie and Triple-A Toledo.
The move comes one day after Dingler exited Wednesday night’s game against the Athletics after fouling a 95 mph pitch off his throwing hand.
Fortunately for Detroit, the injury does not appear to be serious enough to require an injured list stint.
According to A.J. Hinch, Dingler has been diagnosed with a hand contusion and is considered day to day. Reporter Evan Woodbery noted that the need for another catcher, combined with Jones’ struggles, prompted Thursday’s roster move.
Hinch also offered a cautiously optimistic update, saying it remains unclear whether Dingler’s injury will affect his availability for next week’s MLB All-Star Game. However, Hinch added that he is hopeful Dingler will be able to catch this weekend when the Tigers open their series against the Philadelphia Phillies.
For now, the Tigers appear to have avoided the worst-case scenario.
While Valencia gets his long-awaited opportunity in the majors, Detroit hopes Dingler’s absence will be brief as the club continues its push in the American League playoff race.