Tigers Provide Update on Closer Will Vest After Injury Scare

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Graves | Last updated Jun 17, 2025 2:33 PM ET

Detroit Tigers reliever Will Vest gave up three unearned runs in the eighth inning before exiting Sunday’s game against the Cincinnati Reds with a pinkie finger injury. Vest admitted afterward he had “no idea what the extent of the injury was.”

Initial tests didn’t reveal anything too concerning, and manager A.J. Hinch said Tuesday on MLB Network Radio that he expects Vest to avoid a stint on the 15-day injured list, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports.

“I’m expecting to have him available in some capacity and not go on the injured list,” Hinch said. “Things can always change if we get more information. But so far, so good.”

Even before Sunday’s defensive meltdown, the Tigers’ bullpen had struggled this month, posting a 4.98 ERA — the fifth worst in baseball. Still, Vest and Tommy Kahnle have formed one of the more reliable back-end duos, with Vest carrying a 1.83 ERA and Kahnle a 1.50 ERA.

Losing Vest would have been a costly blow, particularly on the heels of news that rookie starter Jackson Jobe will miss the rest of the season following Tommy John surgery.

Vest, who leads the Tigers with 12 saves, including each of the team’s last three — remains day-to-day. Kahnle will likely be next in line for save opportunities if needed.

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

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