Detroit Tigers May Need to Add Another Starting Pitcher for Stretch Run

Detroit Tigers manager Brad Ausmus has used a number of starters this season who have struggled mightily. With the stretch run coming up, it may be prudent to add another option to the mix.

Detroit Tigers fans haven’t exactly seen the best from Jordan Zimmermann as of late. The former Nationals ace has allowed 12 runs, 10 hits, five home runs and five walks in his last two starts. Those two stars have spanned all of 2.2 innings.

The two outings have been Zimmermann’s only starts since June.

What’s more, Mike Pelfrey and Anibal Sanchez have also struggled at times this season.

Pelfrey owns the highest WHIP of all starters with at least 100 innings pitched, while Sanchez is prone to a poor outings every so often.

The veteran has been solid (3.97 ERA in 47.2 innings pitched) since the beginning of August, but he allowed eight runs on eight hits against Texas during that stretch. In July, Sanchez posted an ugly 8.41 ERA while allowing opponents to hit .349 off him.

With the Detroit Tigers in the midst of a pennant chase, the team can ill afford to use struggling starters. If the team wants to make a run at the postseason, they may need to look for other options in the rotation.