The Detroit Tigers have signed infielder/outfielder Jahmai Jones to a minor league deal, with an invitation to major league spring training. According to Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press, Jones, represented by ACES, will make $810,000 if he secures a spot on the major league roster.
Jones, 27, was once a top prospect but has struggled to make a consistent impact in the majors despite strong minor league performances. In 2024, he spent time with the New York Yankees, who claimed him off waivers from the Milwaukee Brewers in February. However, his limited opportunities in the big leagues resulted in just 47 plate appearances with a disappointing .198/.257/.278 batting line over four seasons and 137 plate appearances.
Despite these struggles, Jones has excelled in Triple-A, posting a .304/.390/.490 line in 34 games following his outright assignment from the Yankees. This performance adds to his impressive .276/.408/.471 batting line across 564 Triple-A plate appearances over the past two years, showing he has the potential to be a productive player if given the right chance.
With the Tigers, Jones, a right-handed hitter, may provide a valuable complement to a lefty-heavy lineup. The Tigers’ infield and outfield include left-handed hitters like Colt Keith, Riley Greene, Kerry Carpenter, Parker Meadows, and Akil Baddoo. Adding Jones to the mix could offer the team a versatile, multi-positional player who can fill gaps and balance the lineup, particularly against left-handed pitching.
If Jones makes the Tigers’ roster, he would be out of minor league options, meaning he would need to remain in the majors or face waivers. However, with less than a year of major league service time, the Tigers could keep him under control and affordably retain him for future seasons if he performs well. This makes Jones a low-risk, potentially high-reward signing for the Tigers, who continue to seek depth and flexibility in their lineup.
