Detroit — In a major move ahead of the 2026 season, the Detroit Tigers have reached a salary agreement with three key players, avoiding a potential salary arbitration dispute that could have caused internal tensions. Accordingly, infielder/outfielder Matt Vierling agreed to a $3.255 million contract, catcher Jake Rogers received $3.05 million, and right-handed pitcher Beau Brieske signed a one-year $1.1575 million contract.
“We are happy to be able to stabilize our roster early and avoid unnecessary controversy. The goal is to focus on the field and prepare for a successful season,” a team source said.
Meanwhile, Andy Ibáñez has been non-tendered, which means he will leave the team, opening up other options on the 40-man roster. The Tigers have now finalized contracts for the remaining 32 players, including those eligible for salary disputes and pre-dispute salaries, to help the team stabilize and focus on the upcoming season.
“We know the importance of keeping the roster balanced, both in terms of talent and salary. This is a necessary step to start the season with a focused and united spirit,” the head coach emphasized.
However, the salary story of the heavyweights has not yet come to an end. Players such as Greene, Torkelson, Carpenter, Will Vest, Zach McKinstry, Casey Mize and Tarik Skubal have not yet officially announced their contracts. In the past, Casey Mize had argued with the Tigers about salary for the 2023-2024 season, with a difference of only $25,000, but it still turned into a tense dispute.
“Hopefully this season we will avoid small but prolonged conflicts, so the whole team can focus 100% on playing,” a team official expressed.
Currently, the Tigers’ 40-player roster has been narrowed to 39, with new contracts helping to stabilize the squad before the 2026 season officially begins. Signing players like Vierling, Rogers and Brieske early not only avoids legal and financial stress, but also creates mental stability for the whole team.
Experts say that by resolving the contracts early, the Tigers can focus on building tactics, training and preparing better for the new season. This stability is especially important as the team aims to compete strongly in the American League Central, where every point and player performance can determine the standings.
This move by the Tigers marks an important step forward in personnel and financial management, and sends a strong signal to players and fans that the team is preparing for a determined and professional 2026 season. Maintaining stability in the roster and resolving salary issues early will be key for the Tigers to move towards success and avoid unnecessary controversies like last season.
Detroit Tigers: Prepare for the new season with a stable roster, a united spirit and the goal of competing strongly in the AL Central.
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