The Detroit Tigers made a notable roster adjustment on Tuesday after signing veteran pitcher Alex Cobb to a one-year, $15 million contract. To accommodate Cobb on their 40-man roster, the Tigers designated outfielder Akil Baddoo for assignment, a decision that might signal the end of Baddoo’s stint with the team. His journey with the Tigers began with promise as a Rule 5 draft selection in 2020 but has since been marked by inconsistent performance.
Initially, Baddoo showed glimpses of his potential, sparking optimism among fans and the organization. However, over the past three seasons, his offensive struggles have become apparent. During his major league tenure with the Tigers, Baddoo posted a lackluster .619 OPS, falling short of expectations. His 2024 season highlighted his difficulties as he spent much of it in Triple-A, where he batted .238 with a .736 OPS—numbers that failed to justify a continued spot on the big-league roster.
The decision to part ways with Baddoo underscores the Tigers’ focus on improving their pitching depth, with Alex Cobb expected to play a key role in the starting rotation. Cobb, a seasoned right-hander, brings experience and stability to a pitching staff that struggled at times last season. The move also highlights the Tigers’ commitment to reshaping their roster as they prepare for the 2025 campaign.
For Baddoo, the future remains uncertain. Being designated for assignment means he will either be placed on waivers, traded, or outrighted to the minor leagues if he clears waivers. Teams in need of outfield depth may take a chance on him, especially considering his athleticism and flashes of talent earlier in his career.
Baddoo’s time in Detroit can be described as a mix of brief highs and extended lows. While his early potential generated excitement, his inability to consistently perform at the major league level ultimately led to this decision. The Tigers now look to move forward with a roster better aligned to meet their goals for the upcoming season, while Baddoo faces the challenge of finding a new opportunity to revitalize his career.
In the coming days, the situation will unfold, determining whether Baddoo remains within the Tigers’ system or finds a fresh start with another organization. Meanwhile, the signing of Cobb demonstrates Detroit’s focus on addressing key areas of need as they aim to compete in a highly competitive division.
