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Tigers Say Goodbye to 6-Foot-8, 300-Pound Reliever Poached by Rockies

Tigers Say Goodbye to 6-Foot-8, 300-Pound Reliever Poached by Rockies

Summary

The Detroit Tigers did not protect pitcher RJ Petit in the Rule 5 Draft, allowing the Colorado Rockies to pick him with their first selection. Petit is notable for his size, standing 6-foot-8 and weighing 300 pounds, and his strong pitching skills. He now joins the Rockies' major league roster and is expected to contribute to their bullpen.

Key Facts

  • The Detroit Tigers had to make decisions on their 40-man roster by November 18.
  • They chose not to protect RJ Petit, their 30th-ranked prospect.
  • RJ Petit is 6-foot-8 and weighs 300 pounds, notable for his size.
  • He was picked first by the Colorado Rockies in the Rule 5 Draft.
  • Petit had a fastball reaching 98 mph and a 2.44 ERA this past season.
  • The Rule 5 Draft requires players taken to be on the major league roster for a full season.
  • Petit is now the 26th-ranked prospect in the Rockies' system.
  • The Rockies see him as a part of their bullpen for 2026.

Source Information