The Detroit Tigers are seeking starting pitchers who can earn the labels of “reliable” and “consistent.” Matt Manning, Spencer Turnbull, and Matthew Boyd are among those hoping to fill that role in the team’s starting rotation. They aim to avoid injuries and contribute significant innings to the Tigers. Manning, who was drafted 9th overall out of high school in 2016, will be crucial to the team’s improvement in 2023.

On Friday, his final line on the day: 3.2IP,4H 1BB 4SO, 59 pitches, 39 for strikes and seven swings and misses.

Similar to all the pitchers in the rotation, Manning is on a slow ramp up. After having his velocity down early in his first few starts against the Red Sox and Braves, Manning hit 94-95 MPH, and was able to get out of a bases-loaded no out jam in the second inning. It was his best start of the spring, and it came at the right time. Joey Wentz, who is also fighting for a spot in the Tigers’ rotation, struggled, allowing five runs on six hits in three innings of work following Manning’s appearance.

No depth=long season

In the last few weeks, the Tigers have been actively signing relievers to bolster their bullpens in Detroit and Toledo. The signings of Trevor Rosenthal and Freddy Pacheco play a crucial role in the Tigers’ season. Since the starting rotation may not be able to provide sufficient innings due to injuries, fatigue, and inconsistency, a dependable bullpen is crucial.

Reese Olsen, a right-handed pitcher, is dealing with elbow issues, which leaves question marks surrounding his ability to pitch. While it is unknown if Wilmer Flores can make the leap to the rotation in 2023, past Manning, one could argue that either Brieske or Hill should be the next starter up. Flores will need to develop a third pitch to be effective as he continues to build his stamina.

While it may be a bit of an exaggerated statement that Matt Manning’s start on Friday was huge as far as him cementing his spot in the rotation, from a Tigers’ personal standpoint, it was. Detroit needs as many healthy starters as it can get.