2026 Transactions: Tigers to Promote Ryan, Reds DFA Friedl

Heading into the final week, the Tigers will get a look at River Ryan, as the pitching prospect will make his Detroit big-league debut. Additionally, the Reds designated veteran outfielder TJ Friedl for assignment.

Ryan to debut on September 21

The Tigers announced that River Ryan will start for the club on September 21, when Detroit starts a series versus the Nationals.

It’ll be Ryan’s first action at the Major League level since 2024, when the Dodgers called him up for his Major League debut. Ryan pitched well in four starts, needed season-ending elbow surgery that cost him all of 2025, and spent time in Triple-A Oklahoma City before being traded as part of the Tarik Skubal deal.

He struck out four over 4.2 IP with the Toledo Mud Hens before the move.

Friedl cut by Reds

The Reds designated outfielder TJ Friedl for assignment.

We noted last week that Friedl was an obvious non-tender candidate heading into the 2026 offseason. Friedl got off to a very difficult start this season, and batted .172/.255/.255 over 272 plate appearances this season. So, with Friedl optioned back to the Minors on the 19th, the Reds get ahead of some early offseason business.

That move opened up a door on the 40-man roster for Carson Speirs, who returned to the Reds after being promoted on the 20th.

Recalls & options

Emmet Sheehan (Dodgers), Max Lazar (Phillies), Tristan Beck (Giants), Winston Santos (Rangers), and Kyle Hurt (Dodgers) were recalled from the Minors.

Chris Murphy (White Sox), Wyatt Olds (Red Sox), Seth Halvorsen (Dodgers), Orion Kerkering (Phillies), and Philip Abner (Giants) were optioned.

Other notes

The Rays designated outfielder Jake Fraley for assignment.