Alec Gipson-Long: Everything you need to know

The Tigers activated Gipson-Long (oblique) from the 15-day injured list and optioned him to Triple-A Toledo, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. Gipson-Long had made one rehab appearance with Single-A Lakeland, and the Tigers will keep him in the minors rather than return him to the active big-league roster. The righty made three starts and five relief appearances for Detroit in 2025, collecting a 7.18 ERA and 26:6 K:BB over 31.1 innings. Gipson-Long will join the rotation at Toledo.

The Tigers placed Gipson-Long (oblique) on the 15-day injured list Wednesday. The right-hander sustained the injury during the offseason and was working through his rehab program during spring training. Gipson-Long was throwing bullpen sessions late in camp and will likely need a rehab assignment before being cleared for his season debut with Detroit.

Gipson-Long (oblique) is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Saturday, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reports. Gipson-Long looks to still be on track for an Opening Day return, which is encouraging after the 28-year-old sustained an oblique strain early in spring training. Considering the Tigers bolstered their starting rotation this offseason, Gipson-Long likely would be in a bullpen role if he makes the MLB roster.