Breaking:Detroit Tigers sign six-year MLB reliever Geoff Hartlieb to minor league contract
The Detroit Tigers have added experienced bullpen depth to their organization by signing right-handed reliever Geoff Hartlieb to a minor league contract, the team announced on Friday. The deal does not include an invitation to major league spring training, but Hartlieb will report to Triple-A Toledo with the potential to earn a call-up if he performs well.
Hartlieb, 30, brings with him six years of Major League Baseball experience, having previously pitched for the Pittsburgh Pirates, New York Mets, and Miami Marlins. Originally a 29th-round draft pick by the Pirates in 2016 out of Lindenwood University, the right-hander has worked his way up through the ranks with a reputation for durability and a sinking fastball that induces ground balls.
Over his major league career, Hartlieb has appeared in 57 games, recording a 7.46 ERA with 66 strikeouts across 76 innings pitched. While those numbers may not immediately jump off the page, his minor league performance tells a different story. In 2023, pitching for the Triple-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, Hartlieb posted a 3.19 ERA over 53.2 innings, showcasing improved command and consistency.
For the Tigers, the signing represents a low-risk move that adds depth and experience to their bullpen options at the Triple-A level. Detroit’s bullpen has shown flashes of strength during the current season, but with the constant grind of a 162-game schedule, organizations are always on the lookout for reliable arms that can step in when injuries or performance issues arise.
Hartlieb’s journey through professional baseball has been one of resilience and persistence. Known for his heavy sinker and workhorse mentality, he was once a promising arm in the Pirates’ system. After bouncing around through waivers and minor league deals in recent years, he now gets another opportunity to showcase his value and possibly work his way back onto a big-league roster.
Detroit has shown a willingness to take chances on veteran pitchers who can provide innings and mentoring for younger arms. Hartlieb fits that mold. His presence in Toledo could benefit not only the Mud Hens’ pitching staff but also serve as insurance for the Tigers in case of late-season bullpen needs.
Manager A.J. Hinch and the front office have not commented directly on Hartlieb’s signing, but the move aligns with the team’s strategy of building bullpen depth without making significant financial commitments. With Detroit still in the thick of a rebuilding phase, finding value in veteran arms like Hartlieb could pay dividends if the right-hander can recapture some of his earlier form.
While it’s unclear whether Hartlieb will make it back to the majors this season, the door is certainly open. If he continues to pitch well in the minors, he could be a name to watch later in the season, especially if injuries hit the Tigers’ bullpen.
