Detroit Tigers Bullpen Has Been A Shocking Strong Point

Before the season began, the Detroit Tigers bullpen was once again a major concern. Another injury to Bruce Rondon and losing Joe Nathan early had fans wondering how they could go through another season suffering through late inning collapses.

Fortunately this year has been a bit different. Until last Thursday, Nathan’s replacement as closer, Joakim Soria, had been perfect. It was the first run he allowed in almost a month, and pinch hitter Preston Tucker took a good pitch the opposite way for his first career homerun.

Soria even said himself he threw it right where he wanted it, via MLB.com:

“It was a ball outside of the plate,” Soria said. “The guy hit an opposite-way homer. You just tip your cap. Good for him. He hit the ball well. That’s what you want. You don’t want him to pull the ball in that situation.”

Expecting a closer to go perfect all season is a lot to ask, yet its obviously frustrating when they blow games. This one didn’t end up costing the Tigers, however, as they won off a James McCann walk-off homrun. But its comforting that when these things do happen, our guy is still feeling good.

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Another hitch for the staff came Sunday against the Astros, as their MLB leading 1.22 ERA went up a bit in the 8-10 loss.

Alex Wilson had some issues that game along with most of the Tigers team. But otherwise, Wilson has been beyond stellar. He has not only solidified himself in the Tigers bullpen, but has been Brad Ausmus go-to man to eat up innings in key situtations. Without Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer going deep into games, and with Drew Smyly being dealt, Wilsons role has been extremely important and under appreciated.

Rookie Angel Nesbitt is gaining Ausmus’ confidence by the day. He began the year only seeing non-threatening situations, but has moved himself into more intense action. His 3.50 ERA in 19 appearances proves he also isnt going anywhere.

The last addition to this years team, was cast away Joba Chamberlain. Even Tigers fans were hesitant to have him back, but now hes our set up man for Soria. Holding down a 1.38 ERA, the eighth inning woes have been silenced as long as Joba is running the show.

Thirty-two year old left hander Tom Gorzelanny rounds out baseballs top Bullpen. Gorzelanny has been the left handed specialist needed since Smyly’s departure.

With Rondon coming back, Tigers fans can look forward to more strong innings from the bullpen. Lets just hope he finds his own role, and doesnt displace whats been working so well.

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Schedule