Tigers' James Outman creates franchise history in debut

Tigers’ James Outman creates franchise history in debut originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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Detroit Tigers outfielder James Outman created a positive first impression with his new teammates.

With one out in the second inning, Outman, who was claimed by the team Thursday, outran a short fly ball to center by Cleveland Guardians contact hitter Steven Kwan, dived and executed the low-percentage catch. With a runner on second base, the effort saved a run.

Probably two. 

If Outman did not make the catch, Kwan likely would have scored on Brayan Rocchio’s run-scoring triple.

On his first plate appearance for the Tigers, Outman connected on a 418-foot home run to right-center field at Progressive Field. The 29-year-old created a piece of Tigers history with the solo shot, becoming just the 23rd player to homer in his first at-bat with the franchise.

Tigers CF James Outman looking for new start 

Since his breakout campaign in 2023, Outman has struggled to match his rookie effort, registering a 2.4 bWAR.

Starting the season with the Minnesota Twins, Outman slumped from the start, slashing .156/.229/.250 before being designated for assignment. Making room for him on the Tigers’ 40-man roster, infielder Javier Baez was transferred to the 60-day injured list.

The Tigers’ brass executed several moves before Friday’s series opener against the Guardians. With Outman and relief pitchers Kenley Jansen and Jacob Waguespack joining the Tigers, infielder Zack Short was DFA’d and relievers Beau Brieske and Brenan Hanifee were optioned to Triple-A Toledo.

As a rookie with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Outman hit 23 homers, drove in 70 runs and stole 16 bases. With the Tigers seeking to improve their center-field defense, Outman could provide a spark as the Tigers try to rebound from a 6-22 May.

Through the first three innings Friday, Outman jumped off to a stylish start.

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