The Detroit Tigers have made a significant decision regarding their struggling starter Kenta Maeda, announcing that he will be moved to the bullpen for the foreseeable future. The decision comes after Maeda's continued struggles on the mound, prompting the Tigers' management to explore alternative options for the seasoned right-hander.

Manager A.J. Hinch addressed the media on Thursday, stating that there is currently no timeline for Maeda's return to the starting rotation. "He's going to go to the bullpen for the foreseeable future," Hinch explained. "We have some adjustments we'd like him to make. He's open to any and all ideas."

Maeda, who signed a two-year, $24 million contract with the Tigers in November 2022, has failed to live up to expectations this season. Through 16 starts, he holds a disappointing record of 2-5 with a staggering 7.26 ERA. In 65⅔ innings of work, Maeda has surrendered 81 hits, walked 23 batters, and allowed 15 home runs.

The decision to move Maeda to the bullpen followed his recent outing against the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday night, where he struggled to contain the opposition. In just 2⅔ innings, Maeda allowed six runs on seven hits and a walk, further highlighting his ongoing issues.

Hinch also shared his post-break plans, stating that Maeda will not be in the rotation when play resumes. "We'll have to figure out whether we're going to do bullpen days or what our game plan is going to be," Hinch stated, acknowledging the need to reevaluate the pitching strategy moving forward.

For Maeda, this move represents a challenging period in his career. The 36-year-old pitcher expressed his frustration after Tuesday's loss, admitting that he has not experienced such a prolonged struggle throughout his eight Major League seasons. Despite his best efforts, Maeda has been unable to find the solutions to his struggles on the field. Nonetheless, he remains determined to work hard and focus on finding a way to bounce back for the Tigers.

With a career record of 67-54 in 206 games (171 starts) and an ERA of 4.15, Maeda's recent performance has been a cause for concern. The Tigers had hoped the experienced arm would bolster their rotation, but his struggles have prompted a change in strategy.

As the Tigers continue to assess their pitching situation, including the role of Kenta Maeda in the bullpen, the team faces a crucial period where adjustments and improvements are necessary. Detroit's coaching staff and Maeda himself will need to collaborate to find the necessary solutions that will benefit both the player and the team as they move forward in the season.