Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said Friday that Kenta Maeda (illness) will open the season in the bullpen, per team updates, despite a recent illness setback.

Fantasy Impact

Maeda’s 19:1 K:BB over 12.2 spring innings, with 4 homers and 8 runs, shifts him to the Tigers’ bullpen after this week’s illness, per Hinch Friday, eyeing long relief or spot starts. The 36-year-old adapts. Fantasy managers in deeper leagues or hold formats should roster him, banking on his control for value in Detroit’s 2025 pen or rotation fill-ins.

Kenta Maeda won’t take the mound for Saturday’s Grapefruit League game against the Phillies as planned due to a stomach illness, per team updates, missing a start behind Tarik Skubal.

Fantasy Impact

Maeda, vying for the Tigers’ fifth rotation slot, sits out Saturday with a stomach bug but should return soon after a brief rest. His veteran savvy keeps him in the mix for Detroit’s Opening Day roster. Fantasy managers can still view him as a reliable depth option if he regains form quickly.

Kenta Maeda will pitch in Saturday's spring training game against the Phillies.

Fantasy Impact

Maeda was moved to the bullpen in the middle of last season. It is unclear if he will start or enter in relief.

Kenta Maeda will not make his next scheduled start and has been moved to the bullpen “for the foreseeable future,” per manager A.J. Hinch.

Fantasy Impact

Maeda was tagged for six earned runs in his last start and carries a 7.26 ERA this season. The Tigers have not announced who will take Maeda’s place in the rotation.

Kenta Maeda had a rough day at the office, allowing six earned runs on seven hits and one walk while striking out two over just 2 2/3 innings in Tuesday's 9-8 loss to the Guardians.

Fantasy Impact

This performance further inflates his already bloated ERA to 7.26 and WHIP to 1.58 for the season, signaling ongoing struggles. Maeda's inability to limit hits and runs this season, coupled with a low strikeout rate of 6.9 K/9, makes him a risky play in all fantasy formats. His high ERA and WHIP are particularly concerning, diminishing his value significantly. Fantasy managers should consider other options, as Maeda's current form and stats do not inspire confidence for future starts.