Detroit Tigers: Ranking All 17 of Al Avila’s 2016 Acquisitions

4. Jordan Zimmermann

WAR: 1.3

WHIP: 1.37

SIERA: 4.81

K/9: 5.64

Jordan Zimmermann did not struggle early in his first season with the Tigers—that came later. However, there is no denying that the starter was excellent in the first few months of the season.

Through June third, the former Washington National pitched to a 2.58 ERA while holding batters to a .281 on-base percentage. Zimmermann also compiled an 8-2 record while striking out 43 batters compared to just 13 walks.

Overall, his 2.2 WAR in the first half of the season was the joint-highest number on the Tigers staff.

That was the good, now for the bad.

Injuries and inconsistencies limited the starter down the stretch, as he threw just 39 innings from June 8^th on. Over those 39 innings, Zimmermann allowed 55 hits and posted an unsightly 8.77 ERA.

The right-hander’s worst stretch of the season came in two starts in August and September. During the two starts, Zimmermann allowed 12 runs, 10 hits, five home runs and five walks.

Hopefully, the ex-Washington ace can turn things next season. The Detroit Tigers will need him if they want to make a push for the postseason and beyond. The 2017 rotation in Detroit will likely consist of Zimmermann, Verlander, Michael Fulmer, Daniel Norris and Matt Boyd.