Detroit Tigers 2016 Season Review: Alex Wilson

Aug 4, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers relief pitcher Alex Wilson (30) pitches in the third inning against the Chicago White Sox at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 4, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers relief pitcher Alex Wilson (30) pitches in the third inning against the Chicago White Sox at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jun 25, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers relief pitcher Alex Wilson (30) pitches in the sixth inning against the Cleveland Indians at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

Potential Role in 2016

Over the course of the season, Detroit’s bullpen shifted around quite a bit. At first, Justin Wilson and Mark Lowe were Francisco Rodriguez’ setup relievers. Greene soon replaced Lowe, before Bruce Rondon and Alex Wilson stepped in.

As it stands, it wouldn’t be surprising to see some combination of Rondon and Wilson pitch the eighth inning next season for the Detroit Tigers.

Given his effectiveness down the stretch and the Tigers mission to start shedding payroll, the reliever is almost a lock to stay. Wilson will only enter arbitration for the first time this offseason, and is still under team control through the 2020 season.

Closing Games?

If Detroit elects to move on from current closer Francisco Rodriguez in an attempt to save money, it wouldn’t be a shock to see Wilson garner some save opportunities. Bruce Rondon and Joe Jimenez are obvious candidates to close, but the Tigers may not want put either young pitcher in the ninth inning just yet.

Wilson does own a career 1.48 ERA in the ninth inning.

Next: Six Young Infielders Tigers Should Acquire

The Tigers could also use Alex Wilson in a similar manner in which Cleveland utilizes Andrew Miller. Wilson has thrown multiple innings before, even starting a game in 2014, so he’s shown he can handle the extended stints.