Eduardo Valencia’s unforgettable Major League debut was memorable enough on its own. Now, Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch has confirmed the rookie catcher will have an immediate opportunity to build on it.

After crushing a home run in his first career at bat during Thursday night’s 4 to 1 win over the Athletics, Valencia is set to make his first Major League start on Friday as the designated hitter against the Philadelphia Phillies.

A Reward for Perseverance

Valencia’s journey to the big leagues has been anything but easy. After overcoming injuries and an inconsistent start to the 2026 season at Triple A Toledo, the 26 year old continued to work his way back into the Tigers’ plans.

Hinch praised Valencia for refusing to let early struggles define his season.

“He could have easily gotten buried this season,” Hinch said via the Detroit News. “And he didn’t. So I’m proud of him for being tough enough to handle the early struggles and then find himself playing well right when we need him.”

That perseverance paid off in dramatic fashion with one swing that immediately became one of the Tigers’ most memorable moments of the season.

Hinch’s Message to Every Rookie

Before making his Major League debut, Valencia received the same advice Hinch gives every player receiving their first call to the majors.

“These guys always come in my office before the game when they get here, and I just remind them to keep playing,” Hinch said. “You know, play your game and not try to make this level any bigger than it already is. I mean, forever you’re reaching for the big leagues. You’re aspiring to do something great, and then you get here and you hold on to it so hard that you might lose a little bit of your natural ability.”

Hinch continued by explaining why he tries to keep those first day nerves in check.

“So I try the best I can to get them to smile and acknowledge the success just to get to that point, you’re in my office, before your major league debut, and then go out and play.”

Valencia certainly followed that advice, launching a towering home run in his first trip to the plate.

Friday Brings Another Opportunity

Valencia’s debut performance only reinforced what the Tigers already believed.

In fact, Hinch revealed the rookie had already earned Friday’s start regardless of Thursday night’s outcome.

“He was going to be in the lineup tomorrow even if he punched out on three straight pitches,” Hinch said. “But we’re going to get him in the mix because we believe in him. And after today, I think he’s going to believe in himself as much as he ever has.”

Detroit will now get another look at one of its most intriguing young hitters as Valencia makes his first Major League start Friday night against the Phillies. After a dream debut, the Tigers hope it’s just the beginning.