The Detroit Tigers have strengthened their minor league roster by signing Tanner Rainey, a right-handed reliever and a 2019 World Series champion with the Washington Nationals. Rainey, who has a career ERA of 5.44 across 209 appearances, has shown flashes of brilliance with a solid strikeout rate but struggles with command, evident in his 14.8% walk rate. Despite a disappointing 10.57 ERA in the Major Leagues this season with the Pirates, he has demonstrated potential in Triple-A with a 3.18 ERA. The Tigers are optimistic that his fastball-slider combination, which includes a 97.9 mph fastball and a slider with an impressive 58.5% whiff rate, can add depth to their bullpen.

Rainey, who underwent Tommy John surgery in 2022, has been assigned to Triple-A Toledo, where he will have the chance to refine his command and re-establish himself as a viable option for the big league roster. The Tigers will be closely monitoring his progress, as they could greatly benefit from his high-velocity arsenal if he can find his control.