Tigers Fall to Phillies in Spring Training Matchup
In a split-squad spring training game, the Detroit Tigers faced off against the Philadelphia Phillies, ending in a 5-3 loss for the Tigers. Meanwhile, the other half of the Tigers' squad managed a 4-4 tie against the Toronto Blue Jays in Lakeland.
Game Highlights
Ty Madden, making his return after missing the 2025 season due to a shoulder injury, was a bright spot for the Tigers. The 32nd overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, Madden delivered a stellar performance, pitching two hitless innings. He skillfully handled the Phillies' lineup, including getting Kyle Schwarber to fly out and striking out Bryce Harper, demonstrating control and precision with 21 pitches, 14 of which were strikes.
Offensive Efforts
Javier Báez shined at the plate, securing two hits and an RBI. Kerry Carpenter, Austin Slater, and Zach McKinstry each contributed singles, but the Tigers struggled to string together enough hits to overcome the Phillies' lead. Brett Callahan added a late solo homer in the ninth, but it wasn't enough to turn the tide.
Pitching Challenges
Following Madden's strong start, Scott Effross took the mound. Effross, who has been working his way back from Tommy John surgery and other injuries, faced difficulties.
The Phillies capitalized with Edmundo Sosa hitting a ground-rule double and Pedro León driving in a run. Effross's outing ended with two earned runs in just ⅔ innings.
Konnor Pilkington and Jack Little also faced challenges. Pilkington gave up a 419-foot homer to Otto Kemp, while Little allowed an RBI double to Harper and an RBI single to Alec Bohm, further solidifying the Phillies' lead.
Looking Ahead
The Tigers will continue their spring training schedule against the Baltimore Orioles in Sarasota. With a mix of promising performances and areas needing improvement, the Tigers are poised to refine their strategies as they prepare for the regular season.
Stay tuned for more updates as spring training progresses.