The Detroit Tigers have reportedly signed relief pitcher Mark Lowe to a 2-year deal worth around $13 million. This is just another move in their quest to finally have a bullpen they can rely on. Earlier in the offseason they made a move for Francisco Rodriguez, and reports say they’re still looking for a left-handed reliever to use in the late innings of a game.
It’s no secret that the Achilles’ heel of the Tigers over the past several seasons has been its bullpen. In 2015 they finished 14th in the American League as a bullpen with an ERA of 4.38. In 2014 they finished 13th, and in 2013 they finished 12th. The new regime being led by Al Avila is hoping this is the year they piece together a formidable bullpen to support their balanced offense and rotation.
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The Tigers have already been busy this offseason improving in other areas. They made a trade for Cameron Maybin to play center field to fill the void left by Rajai Davis. Maybin had a solid 2015 season with the Braves hitting .267 with 10 home runs and 23 stolen bases. He should fit in nicely at the top of the Tigers lineup.
The big splash of the offseason was when they went out and signed Jordan Zimmermann to a five-year deal worth $110 million. He’ll sit atop the Tigers rotation with Justin Verlander, Anibal Sanchez and Daniel Norris behind him.
The Tigers were one of the most disappointing teams in 2015 finishing in last place in the American League Central, 20.5 games behind the Kansas City Royals. That division has become a lot more difficult in the past two years, but the Tigers should still be looked at as a major force with the likes of Zimmermann and Miguel Cabrera.
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They are still in pursuit of another outfielder and have been rumored to be interested in Yoenis Céspedes and Alex Gordon. Either of those would instantly make this a team capable of winning the division. However, the Tigers realize how important a bullpen is and making that aspect of their team secure should be at the top of their priority list.