Trending Now - Slater Released From Tigers as Roster Adjustments Continue

WHO:

Austin Slater, 33-year-old outfielder

Detroit Tigers, Manager A.J. Hinch

Jahmai Jones, Matt Vierling, Riley Greene, Jake Rogers, Gleyber Torres

WHAT:

Austin Slater was granted an unconditional release by the Detroit Tigers after exercising the release clause in his contract on March 21, 2026.

Slater had a batting average of .267 (8-for-30) with three doubles, one home run, and four RBIs during Spring Training.

Slater's contract allowed him to request a release if he was not placed on the Tigers' roster by March 21, 2026.

Slater hit .216 with a .270 on-base percentage, five home runs, and 13 RBIs in 65 games during the 2025 season.

Slater has a career batting average of .248 with a .336 on-base percentage, 45 home runs, and 184 RBIs over nine years.

WHERE:

Lakeland, Florida (Tigers Spring Training location)

Comerica Park, Detroit, Michigan

WHEN:

Slater signed his Minor League deal on February 12, 2026.

The Tigers' Opening Day is scheduled for March 26, 2026.

Slater's release was effective on March 21, 2026.

WHY:

Slater was unable to secure a spot on the Tigers' roster due to competition from other outfielders, specifically Jahmai Jones and Matt Vierling.

HOW:

Slater exercised the release clause in his contract, which permitted him to seek a release if not included on the roster by the specified deadline.

(UPDATED March 21, 2026 21:03 UTC)

In a significant move, the Detroit Tigers granted Austin Slater an unconditional release after he exercised a clause in his contract on March 21, 2026, due to not making the team's roster. During Spring Training, Slater posted a batting average of .267 with three doubles, one home run, and four RBIs, but faced tough competition from outfielders like Jahmai Jones and Matt Vierling. Slater, who had a career batting average of .248 over nine seasons, will now look for new opportunities as the Tigers prepare for their Opening Day on March 26.