Tigers Pitcher Drew Anderson Shines after Return from Asia

Every year, several baseball players who previously played in North America try their luck in Japan or Korea before returning to Major League Baseball. This year, Detroit Tigers pitcher Drew Anderson stands out as the most successful of these players. After spending last season in Asia, Anderson’s performance has significant implications for the upcoming August trade deadline.

Impressive Return

Anderson, 32, has made a notable return to MLB with a record of 2-2 and a 3.62 ERA in 19 games for the Tigers. His 46 strikeouts in 37.1 innings represent a good return on the team’s $7 million investment. There’s also a $10 million team option for 2027.

When Anderson joined the Tigers in December, he saw it as an opportunity to bring his Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) experience back to the premier baseball league. He previously played for teams including the Philadelphia Phillies and Chicago White Sox between 2017 and 2021. With the Tigers, Anderson hoped for a deeper playoff run after their back-to-back American League Division Series losses in 2024 and 2025.

“I was definitely hoping to come back,” Anderson said in a Zoom call when he signed. “I really liked the Tigers and watched them through 2024 and 2025 playoffs.”

Struggling Season

The season has not gone as planned for the Tigers. They have lost 21 of their last 25 games, making their record 22-38, the worst in the American League. Only the Kansas City Royals and Los Angeles Angels have lower postseason odds, according to FanGraphs.

If the Tigers opt to sell players before the trade deadline, Anderson is a desirable candidate for teams needing relief pitching. He hasn’t matched his ace performance from Korea, where he held a 12-7 record with a 2.25 ERA and 245 strikeouts in 171.2 innings for the SSG Landers.

Compared to other American players returning from Asia this year, only Anthony Kay from the Chicago White Sox presents competition. Kay holds a 5-1 record with a 3.77 ERA after spending last season in Japan.

Potential Future Moves

Should Anderson be traded, the Tigers could reinforce their roster in the following season without sacrificing their immediate prospects. With the current season looking grim, the Tigers may soon shift their focus to the future.