The Detroit Tigers have made a low-risk but potentially valuable move by adding some veteran depth to their infield mix. The team signed 32-year-old Kevin Newman to a minor-league deal, immediately assigning him to their Triple-A affiliate in Toledo. Newman wasted no time making an impression, picking up two hits in his Mud Hens debut on Saturday night.
For Newman, this opportunity with Detroit marks the latest stop in what has been a winding major-league journey. Originally a first-round draft pick out of the University of Arizona in 2015, taken 19th overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates, he broke into the big leagues with them in 2018. For several years, Newman was a fixture in Pittsburgh’s infield, handling everyday responsibilities at shortstop and second base. Over time, though, his role shifted. As younger talent emerged and his offensive production became inconsistent, he transitioned into more of a utility player, bouncing between infield positions and, more recently, between teams.
Since leaving Pittsburgh, Newman has had short stints with the Cincinnati Reds, the Arizona Diamondbacks, and most recently, the Los Angeles Angels. The Angels cut ties with him at this year’s trade deadline, leaving him looking for a new home. Now, he’s trying to show the Tigers he still has something to offer.
His arrival in Toledo comes at a time of transition for Detroit’s infield depth chart. Just a day before Newman’s signing, the Tigers designated infielder Ryan Kreidler for assignment. Kreidler, once viewed as a potential long-term contributor, has struggled to carve out a consistent role. He remains on waivers, and if no team claims him, he could return to Toledo. That scenario would set up an interesting situation, as Kreidler and Newman might end up sharing shortstop duties at Triple-A while Detroit evaluates both players’ futures.
For the Tigers, Newman’s addition is about depth, experience, and flexibility. With his big-league track record, steady glove, and ability to handle multiple infield spots, he gives the organization another option as they continue to sort through roster pieces heading into the future. For Newman, it’s a chance to prove he can still contribute at the highest level and maybe even earn another shot back in the majors before the season is over.