Left-handed pitcher Tyler Alexander is back in the American League Central just days after being designated for assignment by the Milwaukee Brewers, in a move that has sparked reactions across both Chicago and Detroit. On Sunday, June 8, the Chicago White Sox officially signed the 30-year-old to a one-year, $760,000 contract, reuniting him with a division he once called home for the majority of his MLB career.

The signing follows Alexander’s decision to elect free agency earlier this month after a rocky stint with the Brewers. In 21 appearances (four starts) this season, he posted a 3-5 record with a 6.19 ERA, struggling to find consistency in a relief-heavy role.

But Sunday brought a new chapter.

Alexander debuted for the White Sox that same day, pitching three innings in a 7–5 loss to the Kansas City Royals. He allowed one earned run on five hits, striking out two and walking none. Though the team didn’t come away with the win, Alexander’s sharp command and calm presence on the mound gave White Sox fans and coaches something to be optimistic about.

“It felt good to be back out there with a fresh slate,” Alexander said postgame. “I’ve got a lot to prove, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.”

A Familiar Face in a Familiar Division

Originally a second-round pick by the Detroit Tigers in the 2015 MLB Draft, Alexander spent six seasons with the Tigers, pitching to a 4.38 ERA over 341⅓ innings across 120 games. Known for his versatility as both a starter and long reliever, he became a familiar name across the AL Central — particularly in Detroit, where fans grew fond of his work ethic and team-first mentality.

His tenure in Detroit ended after an injury-plagued 2023 season led to him being designated for assignment. He signed with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2024, then joined the Brewers on a one-year deal in February 2025.

While his stint in Milwaukee didn’t go as planned, Alexander’s return to the division that first embraced him feels like a second chance — not only to prove himself, but also to revive a career that still holds promise.

White Sox Bolster Pitching Amid Injuries

The White Sox, who currently sit near the bottom of the AL Central, have been plagued by rotation and bullpen injuries this season. Left-handed pitchers Jared Shuster and Fraser Ellard were both placed on the injured list over the weekend, opening the door for Alexander’s addition.

White Sox manager Pedro Grifol said the decision to bring in Alexander was strategic.

“We needed someone who could give us length, experience, and stability,” Grifol said. “Tyler brings all three. He’s been around this division and knows how to compete.”

What Comes Next

With Chicago not facing Detroit again until mid-August, fans of both clubs have to wait for a potential emotional reunion. Whether Alexander will still be on the roster by then remains to be seen, but the early signs suggest he’s ready to make the most of this new chapter.

After the game, when asked if he viewed this move as temporary or transitional, Alexander didn’t hesitate.

“I’m here to stay,” he said. “I’ve bounced around, but this one feels different. This feels like home.”

And for a pitcher once cast off, now standing once again on a big-league mound in a division he knows by heart, home might just be the best place to start over.