Casey Mize has been announced as the sixth member of the Detroit Tigers chosen to represent the American League this season, with the Major League Baseball All-Star announcement expected today. The Tigers’ right-handed pitcher has posted an impressive 9-2 record with a 2.63 ERA in 15 starts, solidifying his place among the league’s elite performers.
Mize’s Return to Peak Form After Major Surgeries
The 2018 first overall draft pick has experienced a breakout season after overcoming significant challenges, including Tommy John surgery and back issues. His recovery has allowed him to regain full strength, contributing to the best year of his professional career since entering the league.
Confidence Boosted by Effective Use of Splitter
A critical factor behind Mize’s success is his effective deployment of the splitter, a pitch that played a major role in his early potential. Earlier in the year, Mize revealed that during his recovery, he rarely used this pitch due to pain and limited mobility. The nerve pain in his back and leg had affected his ability to brace properly.
“I haven’t used (the splitter) as much, to be honest,”
Mize told The Athletic.
“When I was dealing with my back stuff, it kind of changed the way that I moved. I had some nerve pain that was shooting down my left leg. I couldn’t brace very well.”
Now fully healthy, Mize has noticeably increased his reliance on the splitter, which is his second most frequently thrown pitch at 26.6 percent usage. Its sharp downward movement away from left-handed hitters has become a reliable strikeout weapon.
Tigers Manager Praises Mize’s Clutch Performance
Following Mize’s recent start, Tigers manager A.J. Hinch emphasized the importance of his performance.
“He’s been incredible. And tonight was not only a well-pitched game, but it was when we needed it the most,”
Hinch said.
“Casey stepped up and gave us everything we needed.”
Mize’s Precision and Confidence Lead the Way
Pitching success often depends on precise placement, and Mize has regained the accuracy and confidence needed to command all of his pitches. When injured, he struggled to control his splitter, which affected his overall effectiveness. Now healthy, his ability to locate pitches with consistency has transformed his outings and excited Tigers fans throughout the season.
With both experience and physical readiness on his side, Casey Mize’s All-Star selection highlights a major milestone in his career. Detroit’s pitching prospect has shown he can compete at the highest level, making this recognition not only a personal achievement but also a significant indicator of his growing impact in the league.