Detroit Tigers Place Former Top Prospect Pitcher On Waivers

The Detroit Tigers have designated pitcher Edwin Uceta for assignment, despite his impressive performance in the Grapefruit League this spring.

The 25-year-old right-hander was claimed off waivers from the Arizona Diamondbacks organization back in January, but his results in the big leagues have been poor with a 6.27 ERA and a high 11.5% walk rate across 37.1 innings pitched.

Only guys from big-league camp that I don't see on the roster: Catchers Mario Feliciano and Julio Rodriguez; relievers Edwin Uceta (DFA limbo), Angel De Jesus, Adam Wolf and Elvis Alvarado.

And of course Colt Keith, who has to hit Erie first on his way to Toledo. https://t.co/sT9qW0ZdTl

— Evan Woodbery (@evanwoodbery) March 30, 2023

Uceta has made 24 appearances in the last two seasons for the Diamondbacks and Los Angeles Dodgers. His performance in 2020 was relatively better, with a 2.79 ERA in 9.2 innings pitched for the Dodgers.

In the Grapefruit League, Uceta allowed only five runs (four earned) on eight hits and recorded an impressive 11/4 K/BB ratio across seven innings and six appearances.

The Tigers have designated RHP Edwin Uceta for assignment in order to clear the 40-man roster spot that they needed.

Nevin, Brieske, Lorenzen all go to 10- or 15-day IL.

LHP Chasen Shreve and RHP Trey Wingenter formally selected to roster.

— Evan Woodbery (@evanwoodbery) March 30, 2023

Despite his solid performance in the spring, the Tigers have decided to designate him for assignment and he has lost his spot on the team's 40-man roster.

It's likely that there will be a lot of interest in him on waivers due to his potential and past success in the minor leagues.

Uceta's minor league numbers are certainly more impressive than his major league statistics, with a 3.92 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, and 472 strikeouts over 410.2 innings.

He's made 75 starts, 40 relief appearances and holds a 28-16 record. Uceta still has a minor league option remaining, which could add to his appeal.

The Tigers now have a week to trade him or attempt to pass him through outright waivers. Photo Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports