The Tigers have acquired right-hander Ricky Vanasco from the Dodgers, as announced by both teams. Detroit, having an open 40-man roster spot after trading Carson Kelly yesterday, has optioned Vanasco to Triple-A Toledo. The Dodgers, who had recently designated Vanasco for assignment, will receive cash considerations in return.
Vanasco, now 25, was once a notable prospect for the Rangers but has faced challenges in recent years. He underwent Tommy John surgery in September 2020, causing him to miss the entire 2021 season. Despite this, Texas valued him enough to protect him from the Rule 5 draft by adding him to their 40-man roster in November 2021.
He returned to play in 2022 with mixed results, recording a 4.68 ERA over 92 1/3 innings in the minors. He struck out 28.9% of batters but also had a high walk rate of 12.7%. In 2023, Vanasco required knee surgery, sidelining him for a few months. The Rangers designated him for assignment in May and traded him to the Dodgers.
Initially, Vanasco performed well with the Dodgers, though he was soon outrighted off their roster. In 30 minor league innings post-trade, he posted a 1.20 ERA, struck out 35% of opponents, and reduced his walk rate to 8.1%.
After being outrighted last summer, Vanasco became a free agent but re-signed with the Dodgers on a major league deal. In 2024, he has spent most of the season on optional assignment, struggling with control issues. Over 23 1/3 Triple-A innings, he has a 3.47 ERA and a 24.3% strikeout rate, but an 18.9% walk rate.
The Tigers are willing to take a chance on Vanasco despite his control issues, as he is in his final option season. They can keep him in Toledo to see if he can refine his skills. If he manages to secure a roster spot, he has minimal service time and can be retained for several more years.
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