Jake Rogers entered the 2025 MLB season as the starting catcher for the Detroit Tigers. Rogers is a 30-year-old veteran who slugged 21 homers in 2023 and has been worth more than two Wins Above Replacement (WAR) for each of the past two seasons.
However, Rogers spent some time this season on the injured list. In his absence, 26-year-old Dillon Dingler emerged and won the starting catcher role. Rogers had an emotional, yet professional, response to the demotion, and it has won him many fans.
Jake Rogers Reacts to Demotion
Rogers spoke about his reaction and response to the demotion to backup catcher in a recent Detroit Free Press article:
#Tigers catcher Jake Rogers puts team first after shifting to backup role
“We got another great catcher,” Rogers said. “As long as we’re winning, I love it.” https://t.co/XTntIloXAG
— Evan Petzold (@EvanPetzold) May 30, 2025
Rogers said, “We got another great catcher. As long as we’re winning, I love it.”
This team-first attitude highlights a winning culture that has elevated the Tigers to the top of the American League Central.
The veteran went on to say, “It’s tough. I’m used to playing a lot, but that’s not my role anymore. I know my role. I’m going to be here for him with whatever he needs, and whenever they want me to play.”
It’s helpful for a less experienced player like Dingler to get advice from a veteran like Rogers. Across professional sports, veterans don’t always feel obligated to help teammates, as they are seen as competition rather than teammates.
This change in the depth chart is supported by on-field performance. Dingler is currently hitting .289 with four home runs while playing excellent defense behind the plate. Meanwhile, Rogers is struggling with a .138 batting average and zero home runs.
With an attitude like this… you can understand why this team is winning.
— Ham Porter (@TBRML2024) May 30, 2025
This fan said it best, “with an attitude like this…you can understand why this team is winning.”
Tigers Manager A.J. Hinch Adds Perspective on Demotion
Tigers manager A.J. Hinch added some insights on the Rogers demotion.
“Last year, Jake caught so much because we trusted him so much,” Hinch told reporters. “Just because Dillon has done well doesn’t mean we trust Jake less or we expect less of him.”
This sheds light on how Rogers will still factor into team plans going forward. While the veteran has struggled at the plate, he’s still been above average defensively and a favorite amongst the pitchers. There should still be plenty of playing time available.
Dingler is still a relatively unproven player who has performed well in a small sample size, so it’s helpful for the Tigers to have depth behind the plate.
Regardless of how playing time unfolds, it’s clear that Rogers has earned the respect of his teammates, with reliever Tommy Kahnle stating that Jake is an “incredible teammate” who “does everything for us.”
This is exactly what you need in a backup catcher – a player who can help with team chemistry. Don’t be surprised if the Tigers go on a deep run this postseason due to this excellent clubhouse culture.