What happened: Detroit added former veteran catcher Martin Maldonado to its coaching staff in a quality control role. The job keeps a longtime major league backstop in uniform in an on-field support capacity.

Why it matters: Veteran catchers are often valued for game planning and work with pitchers and catchers. Detroit finished its 2026 season earlier this month, shifting focus to offseason staff construction.

What to watch: Detroit will define Maldonado's day-to-day duties as the full 2027 staff takes shape.