DETROIT — Left-handed pitcher Matt Gage is now a free agent after declining an outright assignment to Triple-A Toledo following his designation for assignment by the Detroit Tigers five days ago.
The 32-year-old veteran went unclaimed on waivers and chose free agency instead of staying with the Tigers’ organization. Gage, who tossed 5 2/3 scoreless innings in relief during his brief stint in Detroit, was DFA’d to clear space on the roster for Dietrich Enns, who will make his second start for the Tigers on Thursday in Washington.
Originally drafted by the San Francisco Giants in 2014, Gage’s career has spanned several MLB organizations, independent leagues, and a stint in Mexico. After refining his mechanics and shifting to a relief role, he earned his first MLB call-up with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2022. He later pitched for the Astros, spent time in the Dodgers’ and Mets’ organizations, and joined the Tigers this past offseason.
Before his promotion, Gage excelled in Triple-A Toledo with a 1.67 ERA across 32 1/3 innings, recording 28 strikeouts against just four walks. Although he is free to sign with any team — including potentially returning to the Tigers — Gage now seeks his next opportunity in the majors.