Tigers Facing Decision Amid Framber Valdez’s Absence

The Detroit Tigers are expected to make a roster move before Friday's second-half opener against the Los Angeles Angels as left-hander Framber Valdez remains on the bereavement list following a death in his family.

With Valdez not scheduled to pitch again until next week, Detroit has the flexibility to use the temporary roster opening on a position player rather than another starting pitcher.

Detroit enters the second half with a rested pitching staff after the All-Star break, reducing the immediate need for extra rotation depth. That has shifted attention toward improving the club's bench for the weekend series.

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Valdez was placed on the bereavement list on July 12. Under MLB rules, players on the list must remain away from the club for three to seven games, making him eligible to return before his next scheduled start against the Chicago Cubs.

MLive's Evan Woodbery reported the Tigers could take advantage of the situation by adding a utility player, giving manager A.J. Hinch another late-game option while the pitching staff remains fully available.