Detroit Tigers swing trade for infielder Tsung-Che Cheng

The Detroit Tigers have acquired infielder Tsung-Che Cheng from the Boston Red Sox, according to a team announcement on Friday, October 30. Cheng, a 25-year-old left-handed hitter, played 14 games for the Red Sox in 2026 and registered a .256 batting average with a double and five RBIs. He struck out 14 times and walked just four times, starting at short in 13 of those games.

Cheng's versatility as a middle infielder makes him an attractive addition to the Tigers' roster. He has spent significant time at shortstop, second base, and third base throughout his career. At all levels, he has played 485 games at shortstop, 155 at second base, and 40 at third base. The Tigers' 40-man roster now totals 36 players following this trade.

With this acquisition, the Tigers bolster their lineup of players who can fill the shortstop position. Cheng joins Kevin McGonigle, Javier Báez, John Peck, and Zach McKinstry as capable options. However, the Tigers aim for McGonigle to establish himself as the primary shortstop, preventing him from constantly shifting between shortstop and third base. For further inquiries, contact Jeff Seidel at jseidel@freepress.com or follow him on X as @seideljeff.