
The Detroit Tigers came just one win short of reaching the ALCS for a second straight year. Pressure is mounting on the front office to build a more complete roster capable of making a deeper run in the MLB playoffs.
Fortunately, Detroit still has solid pieces in place under team control for the foreseeable future, including left-handed slugger Kerry Carpenter. The 28-year-old outfielder transitioned from a platoon role, where he primarily faced right-handed pitching, into a full-time hitter in 2025, and he did not disappoint.
Carpenter posted a .252 batting average, .291 on-base percentage, .788 OPS, 26 home runs and 62 RBIs across 130 games. While he did not draw as many walks as expected, his power numbers stood out.
As Carpenter enters the offseason, he took the opportunity to announce an off-field gesture for fans on Tuesday.
In a joint collaboration post on Instagram with MLB Transactions Daily, Carpenter revealed he would be holding a giveaway with two separate winners. The first-place winner will receive a signed bat, while the second-place winner will take home a signed baseball. The caption included instructions for fans on how to enter.
Carpenter has spent his entire four-year career with the Tigers and has become a fan favorite for his memorable home runs during the past two postseason runs. Drafted by Detroit in the 19th round of the 2019 MLB Draft, he quickly rose through the minor leagues before making his big league debut in 2022.
Carpenter’s impact goes beyond the stat sheet. His clutch home runs in October have given Detroit fans lasting memories, and his willingness to engage with the community has only strengthened his bond with the city.
As the Tigers look ahead to 2026, Carpenter is expected to remain a key piece of the lineup, providing left-handed power and steady production in the middle of the order. His growth from a late-round draft pick into a reliable everyday player has become a symbol of the organization’s ability to develop talent.
For fans, the giveaway is another reminder that Carpenter embraces his role not only as a hitter but also as an ambassador for the franchise.
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