Late Roster Decisions
Minor league teams have finalized their rosters ahead of Opening Day, and surprising changes have emerged just as the season begins. In a turn of events, infielder Eddys Leonard, who had recently been seen in team photos with the Mud Hens as late as March 27, was released by the Tigers in the final roster cuts.
Versatility and Recent Performance
Leonard has built his career demonstrating flexibility by playing second base, third base, and shortstop at various points. During the previous season at the Triple-A level, he posted a batting line of .263/.326/.455 across 67 games. His season included 35 runs, 26 RBIs, 10 home runs, and he struggled with a high strikeout ratio, recording 74 strikeouts compared to 17 walks.
Injuries and Their Impact
In addition to his offensive challenges, Leonard faced physical setbacks, including a hamstring issue during the 2024 season. With these injury concerns and his overall performance metrics, a decision was made after the season to designate him for assignment before ultimately being non-tendered by the organization. This move opened his path to the open market and signaled a significant shift in his career trajectory as he now seeks a new team opportunity.