Zack Short signs MLB contract with Detroit Tigers; Jace Jung optioned
Shortstop Zack Short elected free agency after clearing waivers following a two-day stint with the Detroit Tigers, then he signed with the Tigers.
KANSAS CITY, MO – Zack Short is back with the Detroit Tigers for the second time in five days. The Tigers traded for Short from the Washington Nationals and added him to their 26-man roster for two days before designating him for assignment . Three days later, after clearing waivers, Short signed a one-year contract with the Tigers.
It's an MLB contract. On the same day he signed, Short was written into the Tigers' starting lineup Friday, May 8, for the opener of a three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. LAST GAME: Defense dooms Jack Flaherty as Tigers swept by Red Sox This time, Short has replaced third baseman Jace Jung on the 26-man roster.
In eight games, Jung hit . 167 (1-for-6) with two walks and one strikeout, spanning eight plate appearances. The 25-year-old made smart swing decisions and put the ball in play at elite rates in a designated hitter role, as the Tigers refused to play him on defense.
Defense is Short's calling card. He is a shortstop-first position player, but he also has extensive experience at second and third base. His offense is a reason to be concerned, hitting .