The Detroit Tigers have placed outfielder TJ Hopkins on waivers just two days following his acquisition from the San Francisco Giants. This move was necessitated by the signing of veteran infielder Gio Urshela to a one-year contract. Hopkins swiftly joined the Tigers’ training camp in Florida after completing his physical examination, but his tenure with the team may be brief as he is now subject to waivers again. Should another team claim him, he could be headed to their camp. Alternatively, if he goes unclaimed, the Tigers have the option to send him to Triple-A Toledo and potentially recall him later in the camp.
Hopkins, aged 27, was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the ninth round from the University of South Carolina in 2019. Although he performed well with Triple-A Louisville in 2023, his stint with the Reds at the major league level was brief and challenging, with a 7-for-41 record and 17 strikeouts. He was traded to the Giants by the Reds last December in a move to free up a roster spot, and the Giants waived him recently following the acquisition of infielder Otto Lopez.
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The Tigers also designated left-handed reliever Kolton Ingram for assignment when they claimed Hopkins, leaving both players in a state of uncertainty on the waiver wire. Their future with the Tigers’ camp remains uncertain, as they may either return to Lakeland or not, depending on the waiver outcomes.
Tigers manager A.J. Hinch acknowledged the challenges faced by players in this situation, especially during this time of year, prior to the announcements regarding Urshela and Hopkins.
