Detroit Tigers promote LHP Blaine Hardy from AAA Toledo

Credit: Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports

Late Saturday evening, the Detroit Tigers announced that they would be promoting left handed reliever Blaine Hardy from Triple-A Toledo.

Hardy has appeared in 20 games for the Mud Hens this season, compiling a 3-2 record, 2.68 ERA and 1.02 WHIP in 20 games. He’s fanned 53 and walked only 13 in 47 innings.

Hardy was understandably excited about the first elevation to the big leagues in his seven-year professional career.

"“It’s starting to sink in, but it’s going to sink in more when I get up there,” Hardy told John Wagner of the Toledo Blade. “It’s a thrill. Hopefully, I’ll keep doing what I’m doing and impress them up there.”"

So whose place does he take?

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After surrendering a ninth inning 2-run shot in a bullpen effort that could aptly be described a dumpster fire on Saturday, lefty Ian Krol reported soreness in his left shoulder while recording four outs and picking up his first career save. He said, however, he didn’t feel it would be a lingering problem.

Every time the Tigers bring up a reliever, the name Phil Coke immediately comes to mind for Tigers’ fans hoping the team can flush the oft-struggling pitcher once and for all, however Coke has been pitching better lately (until Saturday of course) and if the Tigers weren’t going to dump him during his really bad stretch, they aren’t going to do it now.

Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports

Odds are it will be Corey Knebel, who has struggled after being promoted a couple of weeks back, posting a 6.75 ERA in six appearances.

In addition to making room on the 25-man roster for the big league club, Detroit must also find a place for Hardy on the 40-man roster, although it seems likely they will move Luke Putkonen to the 60-day DL.

Putkonen underwent elbow surgery last week and his return date is unknown.

UPDATE: It was Knebel sent down.

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