Right-handed reliever and 2021 third-round pick Dylan Smith will called up by the Detroit Tigers from Triple-A Toledo, per multiple reports. He is looking to make his MLB debut when he sets foot on the mound for the first time. This moment has been a long time coming for Smith, who missed most of 2023 and 2024 with triceps, forearm, and subscapular strain injuries.
MLB source confirms the #Tigers are calling up RHP Dylan Smith – from Stafford HS.
Smith has a 1.80 ERA in 22 Triple-A innings this year.
When he pitches, that will be his MLB debut. pic.twitter.com/XXtKBCSmyz
— Ari Alexander (@AriA1exander) May 30, 2025
Report: Detroit Tigers to Call Up Dylan Smith
Due to the injuries, the Tigers decided to move Smith to the bullpen this past season, and it has worked out exceptionally well for them. He went from a 4.40 ERA in 57 1/3 innings in 2024 to a 1.61 ERA in 22 1/3 innings this season. He has pitched multiple innings in 11 of his 14 appearances this season and is looking to add length to a Tigers squad that is struggling to find a consistent fifth starter.
Drafted out of Alabama, Smith was dominant in his junior year, striking out 113 batters to just 20 walks in 98 1/3 innings. His fastball velocity reaches 96 mph, and his slider can reach the mid-80s. The slider is believed to be his strikeout pitch, but Smith also possesses a slurve that carries exceptional movement.
Looking Ahead to the Future
Between Double-A and Triple-A this season, Smith has been superb, with 32 strikeouts in 22 1/3 innings while working with a 0.761 WHIP. For a bullpen that is already loaded with talent, Smith can fly under the radar and potentially be an x-factor for the Tigers down the later stretches of the season. With expectations starting to pick up for the team regarding a deep playoff run, it makes sense for the Tigers to bring up as many fresh arms as possible. There will certainly be an adjustment period for Smith, but he has the “stuff” that can allow him to thrive at the major league level.
Right-hander Jackson Jobe left his last start in discomfort and didn’t talk to the media following the game, which puts his next expected start of June 3rd in question. If he is unable to go, one can only wonder if that is the day Dylan Smith makes his MLB debut. Already having the ability to pitch multiple innings, Tigers manager A.J. Hinch might turn to Smith for the “bulk innings” of a game.
Photo Credit: © Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
