Tigers outfielder Trei Cruz is the son of José Cruz Jr., who played 12 years in the major leagues. Junfu Han / USA TODAY Network via Reuters ConnectJune 18, 2026 Updated 3:44 pm EDTDETROIT — The Detroit Tigers plan to call up Trei Cruz before Friday night’s game against the Chicago White Sox, a league source with knowledge of the decision told The Athletic.When Cruz debuts, he will become a rare third-generation major-league player. Cruz is the son of José Cruz Jr., who played 12 years in the major leagues, and grandson of José Cruz, who played 19 big-league seasons. His family now joins the Boones, Bells, Colemans and Hairstons as only the fifth family to have a grandfather, father and son all play in the major leagues.Cruz was a third-round pick in the 2020 draft out of Rice. Now 27 years old, Cruz’s development was not always easy, but he persevered and put himself back on the map last season, hitting .279 with 13 home runs in the minor leagues.Cruz might have already joined the Tigers this year if not for a stint on the injured list from April 20 to May 29. Cruz is a switch-hitter who can play center field, shortstop and multiple other positions. He is hitting .228 with two home runs this season at Triple-A Toledo, including a .279 average and .347 on-base percentage since the start of June. Jun 18, 2026Connections: Sports EditionSpot the pattern. Connect the termsFind the hidden link between sports terms