Manning has been successful since the Tigers moved him to the pen a few weeks ago, allowing two earned runs in nine innings. Unfortunately, he’s still walked seven during that span, and he’s yet to see a velocity boost in his shorter outings. He’ll probably get a look in the majors at some point, but he’s not showing closer potential right now.

Manning’s Triple-A ERA now sits at 9.60 on the season. The 27-year-old had some sleeper appeal heading into the 2024 season, but he struggled in the minors last year as well, and it might be time to turn the page.

Manning had a 12.00 ERA in three appearances this spring, including one start. The 27-year-old right-hander had a 3.00 WHIP as he allowed 10 hits, including two home runs, and had a SO:BB of 6:8. The Tigers have to open rotation spots with Alex Cobb dealing with a hip injury, but Manning quickly fell back in the completion with Kenta Maeda, Casey Mize and Jackson Jobe. Now he finds himself in minor league camp.

That Kenta Maeda was so sharp in front of him made it a doubly bad day for Manning, who is one of several pitchers competing for two spots in Detroit’s rotation. Manning had great velocity in this one, averaging 95.5 mph with his fastball. Unfortunately, just 25 of his 47 pitches were strikes.