Drew Anderson’s Impressive Return to MLB from Asia

4 days ago 0

Each offseason, a few players return from stints in Japan or Korea, aiming to regain their place in Major League Baseball. Drew Anderson, a Detroit Tigers pitcher, seems to be excelling in this transition in 2026. His performance could lead to significant moves before the trade deadline on August 3.

Currently, Anderson boasts a record of 2-2 with a 3.62 ERA over 19 games for the Tigers. He has struck out 46 batters in 37.1 innings, showcasing his value as an investment with a $7 million salary in 2026 and a potential $10 million team option for 2027.

When Anderson signed with the Tigers in December, he wanted to bring the skills he honed in the Korean Baseball Organization back to MLB, the top professional baseball league. Prior to this, he had played for the Philadelphia Phillies, Texas Rangers, and Chicago White Sox from 2017 to 2021. Anderson saw an opportunity with the Tigers to drive a deep playoff run, especially after Detroit’s back-to-back losses in the American League Division Series in 2024 and 2025.

“I was definitely hoping [to come back],” Anderson commented via Zoom upon signing. “I really liked the Tigers. I watched them the whole year, both [2024 and 2025], going to the playoffs. I definitely think this year probably progress into the playoffs even more.”

Unfortunately, the season has not gone as planned. The Tigers have dropped 21 of the last 25 games, holding a 22-38 record, making them the worst in the American League. FanGraphs indicates only the Kansas City Royals and Los Angeles Angels have slimmer chances of reaching the playoffs this season.

Should the Tigers choose to sell before the trade deadline, Anderson emerges as a valuable target for teams seeking relief pitching. While he may not replicate his 12-7, 2.25 ERA, 245-strikeout season during 171.2 innings with South Korea’s SSG Landers, his current performance still outshines competitors like Cody Ponce, who has spent much of the season injured for the Toronto Blue Jays. Anthony Kay of the Chicago White Sox, possessing a 5-1 record and 3.77 ERA after his season in Japan, is among few matching Anderson’s return.

Trading Anderson could help the Tigers build their future roster without heavily impacting 2026. If the team’s struggles persist, they might soon focus on preparing for the upcoming year.

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