The Detroit Tigers have decided to part ways with Kenta Maeda, designating him for assignment after a disappointing tenure. Maeda, who was brought in with postseason aspirations, struggled significantly, posting a 6.21 ERA in 36 appearances for the team. His time in the bullpen was marked by seven earned runs and six walks over just eight innings, leading to the conclusion that he did not fit into the Tigers' plans moving forward.

This decision follows a lackluster previous season where Maeda's performance led to a demotion to the bullpen. Despite being a two-year, $24 million investment, his inability to secure a rotation spot raised red flags, especially for a veteran owed $12 million. The Tigers, currently leading the AL Central, will likely aim to bolster their rotation without Maeda as they pursue a pennant for the first time since 2012.