Tigers add depth by signing ex-Orioles outfielder

The Detroit Tigers agreed to a minor league contract with outfielder Michael Siani on Friday, according to MLB’s transaction log, giving the team another outfield option that has recently been stretched thin. Siani will report to Triple-A Toledo.

The 27-year-old left-handed hitter was released by the Baltimore Orioles after joining their organization earlier this season. Baltimore claimed Siani off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers in mid-May, but he spent most of his time in the minors. He appeared in only one game for the Orioles as a defensive substitute before being removed from their 40-man roster and later departing the Triple-A club.

Siani has not found the offensive consistency he was looking for at Triple-A this season, recording a .167/.281/.242 slash line with one home run and 17 RBI in 219 plate appearances. He struck out in 30% of his plate appearances, another indication that things hadn’t gone smoothly at the plate.

Offense has never been the main part of Siani’s game, as his value comes largely from his defense and speed on the bases. He has primarily served as a fourth or fifth outfielder and had a period as a regular center fielder in 2024. Across 161 career MLB games, he has a .220 batting average, two home runs and 21 stolen bases.

Detroit’s need for additional outfield depth increased after Riley Greene was placed on the injured list with a hamstring strain and James Outman went onto the concussion IL. The Tigers have also dealt with injuries involving Kerry Carpenter, Wenceel Perez, Matt Vierling and Parker Meadows. Those absences have already resulted in Trei Cruz and Corey Julks being called up from Toledo.

Siani now gives Detroit another glove-first outfielder at Triple-A while the organization manages its depleted outfield depth.