Detroit Tigers Replace Will Vest With White Hot Pitcher
The Tigers place Will Vest on the IL and call up Ricky Vanasco after his strong run in Toledo.
The Detroit Tigers’ bullpen just took a hit, and the response was immediate. Right-hander Will Vest , one of the club’s most trusted late-inning arms over the past several seasons, has been placed on the injured list with right forearm inflammation. In a corresponding move, the Tigers selected the contract of right-hander Ricky Vanasco from Triple-A Toledo, giving the surging reliever his shot at the big league level.
Will Vest Injury Forces Tigers Bullpen Adjustment The Will Vest injury comes at a time when Detroit has leaned heavily on its bullpen to stay competitive early in the 2026 season. Vest has been dealing with forearm discomfort since his last outing on April 26, and the club ultimately decided a stint on the injured list was necessary. It marks his first IL placement since 2023, a notable development for a pitcher who has been a steady presence in high leverage situations.
His absence leaves a clear void. Vest served as the Tigers’ primary closer during the 2025 season, converting 23 saves and delivering eight scoreless innings during the postseason. That level of production made him one of the most dependable arms in A.
J. Hinch’s bullpen. Ricky Vanasco Promotion Brings Momentum to Detroit The Tigers are not just filling a roster spot.