Sparked controversy: Tigers accused of intentionally hitting umpire.

On September 13, 2017, an incident during a game between the Detroit Tigers and the Cleveland Indians raised eyebrows and sparked controversy. The question on everyone’s mind was: Did the Detroit Tigers intentionally hit home plate umpire Quinn Wolcott with a pitch during their 5-3 loss to the Indians?

The play in question occurred two batters after Tigers manager Brad Ausmus and catcher James McCann were ejected from the game. The ejections came during the bottom of the third inning, with the Indians leading 4-1. McCann was tossed for arguing with Wolcott after a walk was issued to Cleveland’s Jay Bruce, and Ausmus was ejected shortly after for confronting the umpire

In the aftermath of the ejections, John Hicks took over the catching duties from McCann. With the bases loaded and Yandy Diaz at bat, Tigers pitcher Buck Farmer threw an inside fastball that sailed past Hicks’ glove and struck Wolcott in the shoulder. Instead of checking on the umpire, Hicks retrieved the ball and walked towards Farmer, further fueling speculation about the intent behind the pitch.

The incident left the baseball community divided, with some finding the timing of the pitch to Wolcott suspicious, while others believed it was simply an unfortunate coincidence. Regardless of the intent, the incident remains a notable moment in the history of the Detroit Tigers, sparking discussions and debates among fans and analysts alike. In the end, the question remains: Was it an accident, or was it intentional?

Readmore:

Detroit Tigers P Tyler Mattison Undergoes Tommy John Surgery.

The Detroit Tigers have announced that minor-league right-handed reliever Tyler Mattison underwent Tommy John elbow surgery on Friday, sidelining him for the remainder of the 2024 season. The surgery, known for its extensive recovery period, marks a significant setback for the 24-year-old pitcher, who was selected by the Tigers in the fourth round of the 2021 draft.

Mattison, who is ranked as the organization’s 28th-best prospect by MLB Pipeline, showed promise in the 2023 season. Splitting his time between Class A West Michigan and Double-A Erie, he posted a 2.41 ERA while striking out 91 and walking just 28 in 59.2 innings of work.

The loss of Mattison for the 2024 season is a blow to the Tigers’ minor-league system, which had high hopes for the young pitcher’s continued development. Tommy John surgery, while common among pitchers, requires a lengthy rehabilitation process, often lasting over a year. As Mattison embarks on this journey to recovery, the Tigers will need to reassess their bullpen prospects and plan for his eventual return to the mound.