Tigers Make Move on Relief Pitcher After Rough Outing vs. Reds

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Meyer | Last updated Jun 15, 2025 4:11 PM ET

The Detroit Tigers dropped their second game in three tries against the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday by a score of 8-4, their second loss in a row to manager Terry Francona's team.

Detroit has not played up to expectations recently amid the loss of talented pitcher Jackson Jobe to injury.

Saturday's home game against the Reds included a rough performance by the bullpen in an 11-1 loss that caused Detroit's front office and coaching staff to begin reevaluating things.

News broke Sunday on a relief pitcher who struggled during Saturday's loss, prompting a change of heart by the Tigers' brass.

Detroit announced pitcher John Brebbia was optioned to Triple-A Toledo, making room for relief pitcher Tyler Owens on the roster.

RHP Tyler Owens has been recalled today from Triple-A Toledo.

RHP John Brebbia has been designated for assignment.
— Tigers PR (@DetroitTigersPR) June 15, 2025

Brebbia ceded three earned runs on 22 pitches in a single inning of work on Saturday, prompting the change.

The Boston, Massachusetts native compiled a rough ERA of 7.71 this season including 20 strikeouts in 18.2 innings on the mound.

Owens, a former Atlanta Braves draft selection, has struggled with the Mud Hens this season compiling an ERA of 5.74 while striking out 23 batters and giving up four home runs and 30 hits in 26.2 innings.

The Tigers could soon find themselves as buyers for bullpen help by the time the July 31 MLB trade deadline rolls around, especially in light of Jobe's recent injury.

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

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