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Detroit Tigers Claim Promising Pitcher Off Waivers From Los Angeles Dodgers

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The MLB regular season is in full swing, and teams are actively shuffling their rosters in search of wins. In baseball, players who sustain long careers often spend time with multiple teams—sometimes even several in a single season.

A once-promising pitcher is now facing that reality after being claimed off waivers.

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Reports indicate that Grant Holman was claimed off waivers by the Detroit Tigers on Saturday, just days after the Los Angeles Dodgers designated him for assignment.

Apr 26, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Athletics pitcher Grant Holman (67) winds up for a pitch against the Chicago White Sox in the ninth inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images

Change of scenery, again?

Holman has experienced the business side of baseball firsthand this year. The Tigers mark the fourth organization he has joined over the past two seasons.

The Dodgers acquired Holman on April 1 after the Arizona Diamondbacks designated him for assignment. Before that, he spent two seasons with the Oakland/Las Vegas Athletics organization.

During his time with the Athletics, Holman emerged as a pleasant surprise. In 2024, after six years of development, he appeared to hit his stride in the minor leagues.

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Across Double-A and Triple-A, Holman pitched in 40 games and posted a 0.92 ERA over 48 innings. He also recorded 54 strikeouts during that stretch.

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May 22, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Athletics pitcher Grant Holman (67) is removed from the game by manager Mark Kotsay (7) during the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

He later earned a promotion to the majors, where he projected as a reliable relief option. Many believed he could develop into a valuable bullpen asset.

However, Holman struggled to replicate that success at the major league level. Across 40 games over two seasons, he recorded a 4.66 ERA in 38.2 innings.

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He failed to command the plate as effectively as he had in the minors. His strikeout total dropped from 54 to 33 over a comparable sample size, reinforcing those struggles.

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Jun 11, 2025; Anaheim, California, USA; Athletics pitcher Grant Holman (67) throws against the Los Angeles Angels during the sixth inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Now, the Tigers will try to unlock the potential he showed in the minors. At worst, Holman finds another opportunity to continue his career. At best, Detroit uncovers a dependable bullpen arm capable of contributing in high-pressure moments.

Can Holman revive his career in the Motor City after departing the Los Angeles Dodgers?