Luis Marte to the DL

In yesterday’s game against Toronto, Luis Marte left the game in the 5th inning, grabbing his left hamstring. It’s hard not to feel bad for the Tigers’ reliever, as he was just informed two days prior that he’d be one of the key components of the bullpen, and would be starting the year with the big club. Jim Leyland agrees, stating:

"I feel bad for us, I feel worse for the kid"

In two related moves, Duane Below was recalled from AAA Toledo in order to take Marte’s spot in the bullpen, after he lost the fifth starter competition to Drew Smyly. He will assume the long relief role, and Collin Balester will be the “jack of all trades” according to Leyland. Hopefully for Marte, this injury won’t nag him for the rest of the season, as he should be a crucial part of the Tiger bullpen.

Marte was having an excellent spring, allowing only 5 hits in 13 innings, striking out 16 and only walking 4, and posting an ERA of 2.77