DETROIT — Detroit Tigers outfielder Austin Meadows revealed Friday that he will not play again this season as he has been dealing with mental health issues along with a physical illness.

“This season has been an ill-fated battle with a series of injuries and illnesses. Dealing with early dizziness, COVID, bilateral Achilles tendonitis, and having to go through the rehabilitation process each time,” said Media. “I’ve told very few people that they’re spending more time away from the games they love, and they’re also struggling with their mental health.”

Detroit manager AJ Hinch has been aware of Meadows’ mental health issues for weeks. Meadows spoke with teammates about the issue on Friday.

“I’ve spent a lot of time with Austin over the last few weeks,” Hinch said. “We will give him all the support we can. We have been.”

Meadows has appeared in 36 games this season, batting .250 with no homers and 11 RBIs. He was acquired in a trade from Tampa Bay at the end of spring training to give the Tigers lineup an offensive boost. Meadows last season with the Rays he had 27 home runs and he had 106 RBIs.

“When we’re home, he’ll continue to be around the team and continue to work with the people behind the scenes,” Hinch said. He had a lot of support and what he said speaks for itself.”

In a statement, Meadows added that he hopes his decision to go public will encourage others dealing with mental health issues to “seek someone for help.”

— Dana Gorder, Associated Press