Feb. 20, 2026Updated Feb. 21, 2026, 4:38 a.m. ET
Lakeland, Fla. – The Tigers’ starting lineup for the first spring game against the Yankees in Tampa Saturday will be heavy with World Baseball Classic players.
Keider Montero (Venezuela) will start on the mound and Gleyber Torres (Venezuela) and Hao-Yu Lee (Chinese Taipei) will alternate at second base.
Jahmai Jones (Korea) will start at one of the corner outfield spots. Rookie Eduardo Valencia will start at catcher and Jake Rogers will DH.
Colt Keith will start at third and rookie Trei Cruz will start in center. Non-roster outfielder Corey Julks is also expected to start in one of the corner spots.
Rookie Kevin McGonigle will get the start at shortstop. “It means a lot,” McGonigle said. “I’ve been so excited to play and I’m really happy to get the opportunity to play in the first game. I’m looking forward to going out and competing with the guys.”
Saturday’s game will be broadcast on the YES Network at 1 p.m., with streaming available at MLB.com or on Fubo (free subscription trial). It will also be on 97.1 FM.
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Tigers vs. Yankees
▶ What: Spring training opener
▶ Where: George M. Steinbrenner Field, Tampa
▶ When: 1 p.m., Saturday
▶ TV: Broadcast on the YES Network and with streaming available at MLB.com or on Fubo (free subscription trial)