In a shocking development in Major League Baseball, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar has been suspended for 80 games due to a violation of the league's performance-enhancing drug policy. This significant penalty comes as Profar was expected to be a key contributor to the Braves' lineup for the upcoming season. The Braves will need to adjust their roster accordingly to mitigate the impact of his absence.

The Detroit Tigers are positioning themselves as contenders for the 2025 season after a successful playoff run in 2024, highlighted by their victory over the Houston Astros. This offseason, they bolstered their roster significantly with the acquisitions of starting pitchers Alex Cobb and Jack Flaherty, along with infielder Gleyber Torres. Their strategy may evolve further with potential trades as the season progresses, particularly if they begin strongly. A key trade prediction suggests the Tigers might target White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr. in exchange for Jace Jung, their No. 4 prospect. While Robert's injury history raises concerns, his past performance, including a remarkable 2023 season with 38 home runs, shows his immense capability. Given Robert's affordable club options for the next two seasons, this trade could solidify the Tigers' lineup for the long term.

The Detroit Tigers have transformed their pitching staff into one of baseball's most formidable units, transitioning from a previous weakness. The starting rotation now boasts key acquisitions like Alex Cobb and Jack Flaherty, while the health of young pitchers Reese Olson and Casey Mize will be crucial. Underpinning the rotation is reigning AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal. The bullpen, which adapted well to manager A.J. Hinch's innovative strategies last season, looks equally strong with the additions of Tommy Kahnle and John Brebbia, along with veteran Andrew Chafin.

Spring training is already buzzing with the performance of Tanner Kohlhepp, a promising right-handed pitcher who made his spring debut against the Minnesota Twins. Kohlhepp's arsenal, including a sinker, slider, changeup, and cutter, has generated impressive metrics, suggesting he could ascend rapidly through the minor leagues. His mechanics have drawn comparisons to Seattle Mariners ace Luis Castillo, indicating potential for a bright future if he maintains this form.

The Detroit Tigers recently faced a setback with the signing of right-handed pitcher Alex Cobb, who is dealing with hip inflammation that has pushed his spring training schedule back by about a month. The delayed recovery process involved an epidural injection, part of a planned regimen, as confirmed by manager A.J. Hinch. Cobb’s participation in the Opening Day lineup remains uncertain, although he is reportedly on track to play catch soon.

The Tigers signed Cobb with the hope of bolstering their starting rotation, offering him a one-year contract worth $15 million, which could rise to $17 million if he exceeds 150 innings pitched—a milestone he has achieved only four times in his 13-year career. Cobb has a history of injury issues, never reaching 30 starts in any given season. After a brief stint with the Cleveland Guardians last season, where he had a respectable 2.76 ERA, he was expected to provide stability to the Tigers’ rotation.

Detroit Tigers outfielder Akil Baddoo will miss the start of the regular season after undergoing surgery on a fractured hamate bone in his right hand. Baddoo, who has been experiencing wrist soreness since spring training, was designated for assignment last December but cleared waivers and was outrighted to Triple-A Toledo. His struggles continued last season, hitting just .137 with two home runs in 31 games.

The Tigers are also dealing with injury concerns for Alex Cobb, who is expected to miss the beginning of the season due to hip inflammation. Baddoo's absence creates a more crowded outfield situation for Detroit, with notable left-handed hitters like Riley Green and Kerry Carpenter also in the mix.