In a surprise midseason twist that’s raising eyebrows across the league, the Detroit Tigers have officially signed veteran reliever Luke Jackson, a former Atlanta Braves World Series hero, just one day after he was released by the Texas Rangers. Even more shocking? The Rangers are still paying most of the bill.
Jackson, 33, agreed to a one-year deal with the Tigers on Saturday, shortly after his two-day DFA (Designated for Assignment) period expired in Texas. The Tigers are only responsible for paying Jackson the prorated Major League minimum for the remainder of the season, while the Rangers are still on the hook for the bulk of his $1.35 million salary.
For Detroit, this is a high-upside move that could pay off in a big way. While Jackson hasn’t matched his past dominance this year — he posted a 4.11 ERA with 24 strikeouts across 35 innings for Texas — his track record speaks for itself. In 2021, he was a key bullpen weapon for the Braves during their World Series run, delivering a stunning 1.98 ERA over 63 2/3 innings and earning a reputation as one of the most reliable arms under postseason pressure.
The Tigers are hoping that same postseason magic still lives in Jackson’s arm. With Detroit’s bullpen struggling mightily during a recent slide in the standings, the team needed a spark — and they believe they’ve found one in the battle-tested righty. Just last season, Jackson pitched to a sharp 2.97 ERA for the San Francisco Giants, proving he still has the stuff when healthy and in the right situation.
In a corresponding move, Detroit designated right-hander Geoff Hartlieb for assignment. Hartlieb, who had just been promoted two days earlier, struggled in two appearances and now faces his third DFA in less than a month.
For Texas, this move might sting more than expected. Not only did they part ways with a proven playoff performer, but they’ll also be watching him try to resurrect his season — and possibly Detroit’s — on their dime. If Jackson rediscovers his rhythm in Detroit, this could go down as one of the sneakiest bullpen steals of the summer.
As the Tigers push to stay in contention, Jackson’s arrival feels like more than just another roster move — it’s a calculated gamble that could give them the late-inning reliability they’ve sorely lacked. And for Rangers fans, it’s a reminder that even midseason moves can come with lingering costs.
