Dillon Dingler’s Strong Start Puts Tigers in Good Hands

Dillon Dingler Is Changing the Detroit Tigers’ Plans Behind the Plate Dillon Dingler is no longer viewed as a defense-only catcher trying to hold a spot on the roster. He’s producing enough at the plate to stay in the lineup, and that’s changing how the Tigers look at the position. From Defense-First to Everyday Option For most of his development, the evaluation stayed the same.

Dingler had the defensive tools to reach the majors. His arm, framing, and ability to handle a pitching staff were clear strengths. The concern was whether he would hit enough to avoid settling into a backup role.

That concern followed him through multiple stops: Strikeout issues at Double-A in 2022 A disrupted 2023 season due to injuries Continued questions about his contact ability Even after being added to the 40-man roster in 2024, the expectation didn’t shift much. Adjustments Started Showing in 2024 Things began to change in Triple-A. Dingler made noticeable improvements at the plate: Strikeout rate dropped to 20.

3% Hit 17 home runs Posted a . 308/. 379/.