DETROIT — In a move aimed at preserving pitcher health late in the season, Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said right‑hander Keider Montero will sit out at least one turn in the rotation. Montero missed his usual bullpen session between starts, pushing his next appearance to the weekend series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Montero struggled in his last outing, allowing three runs over five innings in a 4‑1 loss to Pittsburgh on Tuesday. Hinch noted that giving starters extra rest at this point of the year is “not unusual” and emphasized the club’s cautious approach.

Bullpen game and schedule adjustments

With Montero on the sidelines, Detroit will employ a bullpen game on Sunday. This shift moves left‑hander Framber Valdez’s next start to Monday at home versus Tampa Bay. The plan also lines up prospects Jackson Jobe and Troy Melton to start on regular rest as the Tigers finish their series against the Rays.

Brant Hurter’s rehab ends early

Left‑hander Brant Hurter, who has been on the injured list since late May with lumbar spine inflammation, was pulled from his rehab assignment after five appearances. In 3 2/3 innings, Hurter surrendered 10 earned runs on 11 hits and four walks.

Hurter, who turns 28 next month, posted a 4‑1 record with a 2.84 ERA in 21 appearances before his injury. Over three major‑league seasons, he has compiled 14 wins and a 2.56 ERA across 74 appearances, including five starts.

Both moves reflect the Tigers’ focus on protecting pitcher health as the season winds down, ensuring the staff remains competitive for the final stretch.

Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.