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Detroit Tigers Make Sneaky Move by Signing Potential Hidden Gem
TL;DR
The Detroit Tigers have signed outfielder Caleb Shpur to a minor-league contract after he went undrafted. Shpur has a strong collegiate background, making him a potential hidden gem for the team.
Key points
- Detroit Tigers signed Caleb Shpur to a minor-league contract
- Shpur went undrafted despite a strong collegiate career
- The move reflects the Tigers' strategy to explore all talent avenues
Caleb ShpurDetroit Tigers
The Detroit Tigers continue to explore every avenue for talent, this time dipping into the undrafted market.
According to Chris McCosky of the Detroit News, the Tigers have signed outfielder Caleb Shpur to a minor-league contract, adding a player who built a strong résumé at the collegiate level despite going unselected in the draft.
Justin Verlander Detroit Tigers reunion Detroit Tigers frontline starter 2026 Detroit Tigers Spring Training Roster Framber Valdez. Contract Details Detroit Tigers new uniform 2026 Tigers lineup Tarik Skubal first home start Caleb Shpur Tigers signing
A Long College Run Pays Off
Shpur, 24, took a less conventional path to pro baseball. He spent six seasons in college, including the last two at the University of Connecticut.
His final season at UConn turned heads, as he posted a .358 batting average with a .426 on-base percentage and a .521 slugging percentage.
Even more telling is his consistency. Across his full college career, Shpur maintained a .432 on-base percentage, showing a clear ability to get on base and control at-bats.
Versatility in the Outfield
Listed at 5-foot-10 and 189 pounds, Shpur brings defensive flexibility, with experience across all three outfield spots—center, left, and right.
That versatility gives the Tigers options as they evaluate him within their system.
Q&A
Who is Caleb Shpur and why did the Detroit Tigers sign him?
Caleb Shpur is an outfielder with a strong collegiate résumé, and the Tigers signed him to a minor-league contract after he went undrafted.
What does signing an undrafted player like Caleb Shpur mean for the Tigers?
Signing an undrafted player like Shpur allows the Tigers to explore untapped talent and potentially strengthen their roster with a promising player.
How does Caleb Shpur's collegiate performance impact his potential in the MLB?
Shpur's strong performance at the collegiate level suggests he has the skills and experience that could translate well to professional baseball.
