Locked On Tigers - Daily Podcast On The Detroit Tigers

Detroit Tigers face tough decisions as Kyle Finnegan and Zack McKinstry struggle in 2026—can they bounce back or is it time to move on? Finnegan’s ERA defies expectations despite a disastrous WHIP and command issues, raising questions about his $8 million contract for 2027. McKinstry’s versatility in the field is overshadowed by an anemic .199 average and a projected arbitration raise, forcing Detroit to weigh defensive depth against offensive shortcomings.

Scott Bentley breaks down both players’ roller-coaster seasons, the Tigers’ evolving roster needs, and the implications for future payroll flexibility. Key discussion points include expected roles for Finnegan and McKinstry if retained, the glut of left-handed bats on Detroit’s roster, and the fanbase’s mounting frustration. Will Detroit prioritize roster turnover this winter, or bank on proven utility in hopes of a turnaround? Get the full analysis on the Tigers’ critical offseason crossroads.

00:00 Kyle Finnegan's 2025 season struggle
04:08 Player's performance in postseason
09:32 5-Hour Energy product promotion
13:42 Discussing potential future with Tigers
16:20 Player's low production in 2025
21:09 Discussing a player's contract value
25:09 Discussing a player's future with team
26:01 Discussing Zach McKinstry's future with Tigers

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Detroit Tigers fans have plenty to cheer about as Max Clark’s electric MLB debut sets the tone for an exciting future in the Motor City. Can Clark’s elite defense, speed, and promising bat become the foundation of a new Tigers core, or will his development face hurdles next season? Scott Bentley spotlights Clark’s rookie campaign, analyzing his .272/.350/.417 slash line, 1.4 WAR in just 51 games, and the potential impact of refining his power at the plate.

Sawyer Gibson-Long’s outlook takes center stage in the second half, with Scott Bentley questioning his future on the 40-man roster after a rocky AAA season and lingering fastball woes. Discussions explore Detroit’s lineup construction, McGonigal-Clark as a 1-2 punch, and lingering questions for the Tigers’ youth movement. Can this emerging core bring the Tigers back to contention, or will tough roster decisions define their offseason strategy?

00:00 Future of Max Clark and Tigers
03:24 Analyzing rookie's defensive skills
08:42 Clark's potential for next season
12:41 Clark and McGonigle lineup impact
15:43 Clark's potential regression concerns
17:45 Sawyer Gibson-Long's MLB debut
23:48 Sawyer Gibson's AAA Performance
25:49 Discussing 40-man roster decisions

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Detroit Tigers face tough offseason questions as Jack Flaherty and Jace Jung stumble in 2026, casting doubt on their futures with the squad. Is it time for a complete shakeup? Scott Bentley critiques Flaherty’s inconsistent pitching, high walk rate, and declining fastball velocity, questioning whether the right-hander deserves another contract or if his days as a Detroit Tigers starter are officially over.

Jace Jung’s disappointing Triple-A numbers and stalled major league development spark debate about his fit amid the Tigers’ roster crunch. With roster moves looming after the World Series and a glut of infield prospects, Scott Bentley explores whether it's best for both parties to part ways. Can Young find new life on a different team, or will Detroit give the former first-round pick one last shot? Don’t miss this incisive breakdown of tough decisions facing the Detroit Tigers’ front office heading into the offseason.

00:00 Jack Flaherty's 2026 struggles
04:42 Flaherty's pitching performance analysis
08:22 High-priced contract disappointment
12:14 Hope for a pitcher’s future
16:50 Roster changes and injured list rules
18:57 Discussing Rule 5 roster decisions
22:50 Jace Jung's uncertain future
25:13 Discussing DFA Options for Player

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Detroit Tigers fans have a cornerstone to celebrate—Kevin McGonigle just delivered one of the best rookie seasons in franchise history. Can he become the offensive centerpiece that lifts Detroit back into contention? Scott Bentley breaks down McGonigle’s .278 average, elite .376 OBP, and 5.4 fWAR, questioning how much more upside remains if he boosts his power or improves defensively.

Key topics include McGonigle’s advanced plate discipline, defensive shortcomings at third base and shortstop, and his projected future as the Tigers’ long-term second baseman. Scott Bentley examines realistic areas for improvement—especially against left-handed pitching—and envisions a future top-of-the-order pairing with Max Clark. The episode also spotlights Corey Julks’ role as a valuable AAA outfield depth piece and examines the odds of his return to Detroit. Can the Tigers build a winning roster around their emerging star?

00:00 Impressive rookie MLB performance
06:54 Kevin McGonigal's standout rookie season
07:46 Discussing McGonigal's Potential
14:01 Unlocking more power over time
17:50 Improvement in defensive performance
18:36 Defensive strategy for McGonigle
22:05 Analyzing Tigers' batting lineup strategy
24:48 Discussing player's contract options

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Detroit Tigers face tough questions as Javy Báez enters final contract year—will his tenure end with a whimper or a farewell celebration? Scott Bentley spotlights Báez’s steep decline, highlighting his struggling bat, dwindling defensive prowess, and skyrocketing chase rates. With positional versatility and minor platoon value against left-handed pitching, can Báez justify his $24 million salary, or is 2027 his swan song in Major League Baseball?

Explore the Tigers’ offseason dilemma: keep Báez as a super-utility player or cut ties early amidst payroll relief and playoff ambitions. Scott Bentley also dissects Yilber Diaz’s raw velocity, control issues, and uncertain future on the pitching staff. Key topics include the Tigers’ roster flexibility, potential buyout scenarios, and what it would take for Báez to revive his career or earn a farewell tour. Can Detroit find value in fading stars, or is a youth movement inevitable for 2027?

00:00 Discussing Javy Báez and Yilber Díaz
06:28 Defensive versatility and batting analysis
07:39 Struggles with declining performance
12:13 Tigers' contract considerations for 2027
15:05 Discussing adaptable player roles
19:39 Talking about FanDuel promotions
23:36 Discussing a pitcher's future prospects
24:56 Deciding the future of a pitcher
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Detroit Tigers weigh tough decisions on Hao-Yu Lee’s future at second base as Gleyber Torres’s contract nears its end. Can Lee’s bat—buoyed by a sizzling .813 OPS after June 1—overcome glaring defensive shortcomings to earn an everyday role in 2027? Scott Bentley explores Lee's rapid offensive adjustments, his struggles against breaking pitches, and the challenge of finding a spot amid a crowded infield featuring Colt Keith, Jace Jung, Andy Ibanez, and more.

The bullpen’s ace-in-the-hole, Drew Anderson, also comes under the microscope. After a roller-coaster return from the KBO, Anderson’s mix of elite velocity and a signature changeup powered a 3.67 ERA across 100+ innings. But with looming command issues and a $10 million club option, is Anderson’s multi-role value enough for the Tigers to invest again? Scott Bentley breaks down the numbers and the pivotal roster decisions facing Detroit this offseason.

00:00 Discussing Hao-Yu Lee's Role
05:22 Player's September performance adjustments
06:41 Hao-Yu Lee's crucial adjustments
11:22 Discussing defensive struggles infield
14:39 Discussing Hao-Yu Lee's Role
18:45 Impressive performance turnaround
22:19 Analyzing a unique changeup
23:21 Analyzing changeup velocity and movement
27:49 Tigers' pitcher club option debate
32:24 Reworking a player's contract
33:37 Discussing Drew Anderson's contract options

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This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

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Detroit Tigers face a pivotal offseason as Gleyber Torres' decline and Ty Madden's reinvention reshape the roster conversation. With Torres accepting the qualifying offer for 2026 but falling to career lows in WAR and games played, questions swirl about whether Detroit should invest in another contract for the veteran. His slipping athleticism, power drought, and defensive struggles raise the stakes—does the Tigers’ future have room for an "old" 29-year-old whose only standout skill is drawing walks?

Scott Bentley breaks down how the emergence of prospects like Clark and McGonigle could push Torres out of the lineup, spotlighting Detroit’s shift toward a speedier, more dynamic core. The episode also examines Ty Madden’s transformation into a reliable bullpen option with dramatic pitch shape adjustments, raising the ceiling for the Tigers’ 2027 bullpen. Can Madden lock down a roster spot as the Tigers overhaul their identity?

00:00 Evaluating Player Performances
05:01 Struggles of a 29-Year-Old DH
06:30 Gleyber's struggles with fastballs
12:27 Optimizing batting lineup strategy
13:27 Discussing Gleyber's contract situation
18:09 Improving the cutter pitch
20:10 Revamping the cutter pitch
26:36 Deciding Ty Madden's Roster Spot
28:04 Ty Madden's improvements this season

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Odoo
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Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Detroit Tigers rumors heat up as whispers of a Tarik Skubal reunion spark debate—does Detroit have the resolve (and payroll) to compete with MLB heavyweights for their former ace? Scott Bentley questions the Tigers’ willingness to spend big, especially with Skubal’s projected $350 million price tag and the team’s past reluctance to lock in emerging stars. Are the Tigers truly contenders, or just sentimental favorites in the Skubal sweepstakes?

The focus shifts to the Arizona Fall League, where top Tigers prospects Bryce Raynor, Zaire Hope, and John Peck headline a group of eight, aiming to build confidence and experience against varied competition. Scott Bentley breaks down each prospect’s development needs and the stakes for arbitration-eligible Tigers, including Riley Green, Spencer Torkelson, and Matt Vierling. With contract decisions looming, are surprise non-tenders on the horizon—and which young players might seize bigger roles in 2027?

00:00 Tarik Skubal Tigers reunion talks
04:03 Tigers' decision on player contracts
06:29 Doubtful about Tarik Skubal's return
11:46 Playing for the Scorpions in AFL
14:35 Pitcher's development and future potential
17:41 Minor league pitching standouts
21:27 Tigers focus on player development
22:57 Improving player performance stats
26:23 Deciding on player contracts
29:56 Discussing player performance

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KALSHI
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Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Detroit Tigers find hope in disappointment as Kevin McGonigle emerges as a future franchise cornerstone. Could this young core spark a turnaround in 2027?

Scott Bentley spotlights breakout seasons from McGonigle, Dillon Dingler, and Troy Melton, analyzing their WAR leaders and the promise of a revamped rotation featuring Reese Olson, River Ryan, and Keider Montero. The Tigers’ improved on-base percentage and disciplined approach at the plate signal a shift in offensive identity. Even amid bullpen struggles, Drew Sommers shines as a potential lockdown reliever. Can the front office capitalize on this foundation by adding impactful veterans, or will another quiet offseason stall Detroit’s momentum? Don’t miss this breakdown of what went right for the Tigers in 2026 and what must change for a playoff return.

00:00 Top prospect's impressive debut
03:52 Kevin McGonigle's breakthrough season
07:49 Pitching rotation and bullpen depth
13:32 Reflecting on the disappointing season
14:55 Tigers' roster and future potential
18:32 Drew Sommers' impressive 2027 potential
24:22 Analyzing team's offensive progress
25:26 Reflecting on the 2026 season

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Detroit Tigers’ bullpen collapse and high-leverage failures sink 2026 playoff hopes. Can this roster rebound or is a full overhaul needed?

Scott Bentley breaks down the Detroit Tigers’ frustrating 2026 campaign, spotlighting disastrous late-inning pitching (9.21 bullpen ERA in high-leverage spots) and a lineup riddled with missed opportunities—just .238 with runners in scoring position. Hear how key names like Kenley Jansen, Will Vest, Kyle Finnegan, and Framber Valdez fell short of expectations, while only Spencer Torkelson and Ha-young Lee delivered in clutch moments. The episode examines Dylan Dingler’s second-half slump, defensive lapses across the infield and outfield, and [AJ Hinch]’s struggles with bullpen management and pinch-hitting strategies.

Can Detroit address glaring bullpen issues, fortify its defense, and establish a more reliable lineup? Don’t miss this straight-shooting analysis of everything that went wrong for the Tigers in 2026—and what must change for a return to contention.

00:00 Post-season Tigers analysis episodes
03:48 Analyzing Tigers' bullpen performance
09:28 FanDuel Rewards Club promo
10:53 Reflecting on a Tough May
13:36 Analyzing players' hitting stats
17:33 Discussing Framber Valdez's Performance
20:59 Team struggles and season challenges
25:18 Debating Hinch's management decisions
28:01 Critiquing the Tigers' management

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This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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