Sep 9, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers catcher Alex Avila (left) and relief pitcher Joe Nathan (right) celebrate after the game against the Kansas City Royals at Comerica Park. Detroit won 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Joe Nathan reaches 400 saves
Last year was one of the worst seasons of veteran right-hander Joe Nathan’s career. His 4.81 ERA and career-high seven blown saves nearly cost him the closer’s job with the Detroit Tigers. Although, since the team has few options to replace him, Nathan will likely get another shot in 2015 to rack up the saves.
Nathan only needs 24 saves to get to 400 for his career. This should come easy as even in 2014 he managed to earn 35. Reaching 400 career saves brings Nathan into rare company. Only five others have ever gotten to 400. Before he does that, Nathan will need to pass Dennis Eckersley at 390. All it will take is an average season from Nathan to earn save number 400 – or even a bad one. I have faith in him.