Salary-Related
Anibal Sanchez
Getting out from under Sanchez’ contract should be one of Detroit’s top priorities this offseason.
After the emergence of Michael Fulmer, Daniel Norris and Matt Boyd, there may not be room for Sanchez in the rotation. Justin Verlander and Jordan Zimmermann will both be back next season, and the team has other options in the minors.
Buck Farmer, Bell and Jaye could start. Additionally, the team could find value in a buy-low addition to the rotation, like Jesse Hahn or Derek Holland.
Mike Pelfrey
Just as with Sanchez, Pelfrey was forced out of the rotation. If Detroit can move on from his salary, the team will be able to reinvest the money elsewhere.
Of all pitchers with 100 innings pitched, Pelfrey owned the highest WHIP in the Majors.
Mark Lowe
Again, another salary the Tigers could move on from, Lowe pitched to a 7.11 ERA and a 5.66 FIP in 2016. His 4.07 SIERA and .319 BABIP suggest he was better than his initial stats would indicate, however Detroit has other options in relief.