INJURY UPDATE: Tigers Manager A.J. Hinch Speaks on Colt Keith’s Injury

Sport Lite September 19, 2025

September 19, 2025

Detroit tigers news

DETROIT – Concern swept through Comerica Park on Thursday night when rookie infielder Colt Keith was forced to exit the game against the Cleveland Guardians after just two innings. The Tigers later confirmed that Keith was dealing with low back tightness, sparking immediate questions about his availability for the stretch run.

Manager A.J. Hinch didn’t hide his concern when asked about the situation postgame. “Anytime a player takes himself out of the game, especially someone as tough as Colt, you know it’s serious. He told me flat-out that he couldn’t go, and for a player to say that, it’s concerning,” Hinch said.

Keith, who has become a cornerstone in the Tigers’ infield, is set to undergo imaging tests to determine the severity of the issue. Hinch acknowledged that the timing couldn’t be worse, with Detroit in the middle of a playoff push. “We’ll wait on the results, but obviously this is not what you want to see in September,” he added.

Before leaving the game, Keith had been on a hot streak at the plate, hitting safely in eight of his last nine outings and raising his season totals to .254 with 13 home runs and 44 RBIs. His versatility at third base has given the Tigers lineup much-needed balance.

Hinch emphasized that the team will rally around their young star, but also prepare alternatives. “We have guys like Zach McKinstry and Andy Ibáñez who can step in, and Jace Jung has been doing well in Toledo. But nobody replaces what Colt brings to the field and clubhouse,” Hinch said.

The Tigers are expected to provide an update once imaging results are available. For now, Hinch has asked fans to remain patient and hopeful. “He’s a fighter, and we’re going to support him through this. Right now, it’s about getting him healthy and making sure we do right by him,” the manager concluded.