Phillies Lose Player to Tigers Before Cubs Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Hudson | Last updated Apr 13, 2026 5:05 PM ET

The Philadelphia Phillies are coming off a 4–3 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks and will look to bounce back against the Chicago Cubs . According to the Phillies X account, the team designated right-hander Yoniel Curet for assignment, and he was subsequently claimed off waivers by the Detriot Tigers. Curet is still seeking his Major League Baseball debut after a brief stint in the Phillies’ minor league system.

In three appearances, he struggled significantly, posting a 43.20 ERA, a 4.80 WHIP, and recording three strikeouts across just 1 2/3 innings pitched. Although his sample size was small, he allowed a high number of runs, and since the team needed more space on their 40-man roster, they decided to waive him.

RHP Yoniel Curet (DFA on 4/8) was claimed off waivers today by the Detroit Tigers.
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) April 13, 2026

This is largely a neutral loss for the Phillies, as it does not significantly impact the major league roster, but rather their organizational depth. The team values having additional arms available, so losing a pitcher can still carry some weight. The Tigers claimed Curet off waivers, adding depth to their pitching staff while allowing him to develop further, particularly in the bullpen.

In the recent loss, the Phillies still saw encouraging performances from their pitchers. Andrew Painter recorded seven strikeouts over five innings, while Zach Pop added three strikeouts in two innings of relief. The organization continues to see progress from its younger arms and is evaluating how best to adjust the rotation. Those decisions could help improve overall pitching effectiveness and lead to more wins as the season continues.

Philadelphia Phillies manager Rob Thomson walks back to the dugout after a pitching change during the ninth inning against the Texas Rangers at Citizens Bank Park. © Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Curet is working to develop into a starting pitcher at the major league level. He signed as an international free agent with the Tampa Bay Rays on July 2, 2019, out of the Dominican Republic at age 16. The Rays added him to their 2023 roster to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft. On Dec. 10, 2025, the Phillies acquired Curet in a trade that sent pitcher Tommy McCollum to Tampa Bay. He now joins the Tigers after being claimed off waivers.

He remains on a pre-arbitration contract. He received a $150,000 signing bonus in 2019 and had a minor league salary valued at $123,900 in 2025. He is known for a high-velocity fastball, typically ranging from 95 to 98 mph, along with strong strikeout ability and a high-spin, high-zone approach. The Tigers will focus on refining his command and consistency as they work to develop him into a reliable pitcher.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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