Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the plan was for Detroit Tigers former No. 1 overall pick Casey Mize to spend the 2020 season in Triple-A Toledo but if manager Ron Gardenhire has any say in the matter, that could change.
On Tuesday, following a batting practice session that saw Mize mowing down hitters with ease, Gardenhire spoke to reporters and he made it pretty clear that he wants the Tigers top pitching prospect on his roster…now.
“Yeah. I’d like to have him (on the roster) — right now,” Gardenhire said. “We know the protocol and what we’re trying to do here, step by step. I just think he’s very poised. He knows what he needs to do and wants to do and it’s fun watching him pitch.
“He’s in control and he has a great plan on what he needs to do to be successful. He’s moving really quick and for me, it can’t be quick enough. I like him a lot.”
Nation, do you think the Tigers should add Mize to their Opening Day roster or would he benefit more from joining the 30-man taxi squad that will continue to work out in Toledo when the MLB season begins?
One thing is for sure, Mize is seemingly doing what he can to force the Tigers’ hand!