Tigers promote top prospect Max Clark and delay Casey Mize's start ahead of trade deadline

Detroit promoted 21-year-old outfielder Max Clark from Triple-A Toledo, inserting him into the lineup as the seventh hitter and center fielder against the Oakland Athletics on Friday. Manager A.J. Hinch said Clark had "one of the most impressive Julys in Toledo" and that his recent performance earned him the promotion. Clark, the third overall pick in the 2023 amateur draft, has been hitting .276 with 11 home runs, 42 RBIs and an .802 OPS at the Triple-A level.

The move gives Detroit two of its 2023 draft selections on the major-league roster, joining shortstop Kevin McGonigle, the 37th-overall pick who is batting .285 with nine homers and was named an All-Star.

The Tigers also pushed back starter Casey Mize's next start to Tuesday in Seattle, a day after the trade deadline, to keep the pitcher available for a possible deal. Mize, who is 4-6 with a 2.70 ERA in 16 starts this season, said he feels "in limbo" but remains committed to the team.

To accommodate Clark, Detroit placed outfielder Matt Vierling on the 10-day injured list and designated right-hander Andre Granillo for assignment. The club also recalled left-hander Enmanuel De Jesus from Toledo and optioned right-hander Brenan Hanifee to Triple-A.