NEW YORK -- Spencer Turnbull's option to the minor leagues by the Detroit Tigers on Aug. 23 was reversed because of a foot injury, giving the pitcher an additional 3 1/2 weeks of major league service.
The 31-year-old right-hander became a free agent Friday when the Tigers declined to offer a 2024 contract.
He did not pitch for the Tigers this year after May 6. The Tigers at first optioned him to Triple-A Toledo, then rescinded the option and placed him on the injured list with neck discomfort.
Turnbull made four appearances for Triple-A Toledo on an injury rehabilitation assignment from Aug. 4-22, then was activated from the IL and optioned to the Mud Hens and pitched in two more games.
"At the time I was optioned in August 2023, I was dealing with a foot injury," Turnbull said in a statement issued Monday by the players' association. "I raised this with the club. After further review of my condition, the club has now agreed to reverse the option and I am receiving full major league service for the 2023 season."
Turnbull's service time increases by 26 days to 5 years, 20 days. While he originally was in the minor leagues for the final 40 days of the season, a full service year for the 186-day season is 172 days.
Turnbull was 1-4 with a 7.26 ERA in seven starts in 2023, earning $2.15 million in the second season of a $3.65 million, two-year contract. He is 12-29 with a 4.55 ERA in 60 starts and one relief appearance over five years with the Tigers.