Detroit Tigers closer Will Vest exited Sunday’s 8-4 loss to the Reds after experiencing pain in his pinky finger, triggering concern across the team. Vest, who has been a reliable fixture with a 1.80 ERA and 12 saves through 32 appearances, signaled discomfort after a wild pitch in the eighth inning. Manager A.J. Hinch immediately removed him, awaiting tests during Monday’s off-day to determine the injury’s severity.

Losing Vest would compound Detroit’s bullpen woes. Veteran John Brebbia was designated for assignment that same day following two poor outings, and the team recalled inconsistent reliever Tyler Owens from Triple-A Toledo. Without Vest late, Tigers may need to pursue reinforcements before the trade deadline.

Vest’s potential absence coincides with other staff injuries. Rookie Jackson Jobe is set for Tommy John surgery and will miss the rest of the season—and likely 2026—while starter Reese Olson remains sidelined with finger inflammation. This has thrust pressure onto relievers like Tommy Kahnle, yet the bullpen ERA remains a concerning 4.98 in June, one of the worst in the majors.

As Tuesday’s matchup against the Pirates approaches, the team and fans await updates. If Vest needs to land on injured reserve, the Tigers face a critical task: rebuilding late-inning depth in a season-defining stretch.

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