Tigers promote top prospect Max Clark, debuting in center field vs. Athletics
Detroit called up No. 1 prospect Max Clark from Triple-A Toledo, inserting him into the lineup against Oakland after an injury opened a roster spot.
Detroit promoted its No. 1 ranked prospect Max Clark from Triple-A Toledo on Friday, giving him a start in center field and a seventh-spot in the batting order against the Oakland Athletics. The move came after outfielder Matt Vierling was placed on the 10-day injured list with an adductor strain, prompting the club to clear a roster slot by designating pitcher Andre Granillo for assignment.
"He was killing it in Triple-A," manager AJ Hinch said of Clark, noting the outfielder’s impressive July performance, which included a .338/.466/.620 slash line, eight multi-hit games and five home runs.
Hinch added that Clark has earned the promotion through steady development and that the team expects him to play regularly in center field regardless of the handedness of the starting pitcher. The shift will also move Javier Baez back to the infield and give extra outfield depth to James Outman.
"Max is a very gifted athlete. He works hard, is meticulous with his preparation and will be all over the positioning," Hinch said, emphasizing that while Clark is not a finished product, he has shown the ability to make the plays expected at the major-league level.
The Tigers also called up left-handed pitcher Enmanuel De Jesus, optioned right-handed pitcher Brenan Hanifee and completed the roster adjustments before the game.