The Tigers are facing a setback with Beau Brieske sidelined until at least the end of May due to a left adductor strain. However, they’ve bolstered their bullpen by signing veteran right-hander Connor Seabold to a one-year split contract valued at $800,000 at the Major League level.
Seabold, a seasoned pitcher with stints at the Red Sox, Rockies, Rays, and Braves, was recently in camp with the Blue Jays as a non-roster invitee. He opted for free agency after Toronto didn’t add him to their roster.
During Grapefruit League play, Seabold flashed significant strikeout potential, racking up 13 strikeouts over 6 2/3 innings. However, he also allowed five runs on seven hits, four walks, and hit three batters. As Spring Training progressed, Seabold sharpened his control, delivering 4 2/3 innings of one-run ball with two walks and nine strikeouts over four March appearances.
Seabold typically features a 92-93 mph fastball, complemented by a mid- to upper-80s slider and a low-80s changeup. Interestingly, his fastball velocity ticked up to the mid-90s during camp, showing impressive movement. The Tigers’ pitching staff will focus on helping him harness this added velocity and fine-tune his command.
Originally starting his career as a starter, including a 2024 season with the KBO’s Samsung Lions, Seabold transitioned to a relief role last season.
Meanwhile, Brieske’s journey to regain full health continues. The 27-year-old, who was pivotal in the Tigers' 2024 postseason bullpen, has been plagued by injuries.
After missing much of last season due to a right ankle injury and a right forearm strain, Brieske entered Spring Training optimistic. Unfortunately, he was limited to three Grapefruit League appearances due to back spasms and the subsequent adductor strain, delaying his season debut.
Initially, there was hope for an early return, but the timeline has now shifted.