Detroit Tigers: 5 Free Agent Targets for 2016

Oct 16, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Doug Fister (58) looks for a sign against the Boston Red Sox in game four of the American League Championship Series baseball game at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

#3: Doug Fister

Time to right a wrong and bring Doug Fister back home. Detroit Tigers’ fans will never forget the move that sent Fister away in his prime, but perhaps he has got a couple good years left in his arm.

There are distinct drawbacks to bringing this unrestricted free agent back to Detroit, namely his injury issues. Fister missed the start of last season and missed an extended amount of time this season. That delayed start in 2014 was no issue once Doug got going, posting a career-high 16 victories in his first year with the Washington Nationals.

This year has been more of a struggle for Fister, going just 3-6 in 13 starts, posting a 4.50 ERA and 1.473 WHIP. That is not ideal, especially in a contract year, but it can certainly bring his price tag down.

Fister is familiar with the Tigers’ organization, pitched well at Comerica Park and, at 32 years of age next year, would be a good middle rotation option–certainly an upgrade over Alfredo Simon.

I could see the Tigers being able to get a fair deal in the vein of Anibal Sanchez‘s contract signed before 2013 (5-years, $80 million) adjusted for inflation but for fewer years, maybe 2 or 3 with an option for an additional year.

Next: Zimmermann