Detroit Tigers: Former Players Feature on Upcoming Schedule

Oct 5, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers starting pitcher David Price (14) talks with catcher Bryan Holaday (50) against the Baltimore Orioles during the eighth inning in game three of the 2014 ALDS baseball playoff game at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jul 15, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Kansas City Royals relief pitcher Joakim Soria (48) walks off the field after the seventh inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

Kansas City Royals: Reliever Joakim Soria

In terms of former Detroit Tigers players on the Royals roster, it starts and ends with Joakim Soria. With Omar Infante released earlier in the season and Brian Flynn in the minor leagues, Soria is the lone former Tiger currently with Kansas City’s big league team.

Soria was dealt to the Pirates from Detroit at last season’s trade deadline before signing with the defending champs in the offseason.

So far, the decision to move on from the team’s former closer looks like the right move for the Tigers.

Over the course of 50 innings, the longtime closer owns a 4.14 ERA, a 4.60 FIP and a 3.72 SIERA. What’s more, he’s locked into a hefty, long-term contract. The deal which he signed with the Royals just months ago will potentially take him through his age-35 season (per Spotrac).

In the trade that sent Soria to Pittsburgh, the Tigers were also able to pick up JaCoby Jones, who brings an intriguing blend of raw power, speed and athleticism to the diamond. He’s seen time at third base, shortstop and in the outfield. It isn’t difficult to imagine him having a Ben Zobrist like effect on the team in the near future.