Detroit Tigers Spring Training Preview: Bullpen Locks

Francisco Rodriguez
Age: 35
Throws: Right-Handed

This one is perhaps the easiest call on the list. Rodriguez could have conceivably been dealt in the offseason if the Detroit Tigers traded away the team’s veterans.

However, K-Rod is still with the Tigers, and will continue to close games. At this point, he’s Detroit’s best closing option.

Justin Wilson
Age: 29
Throws: Left-Handed

Another easy call, Wilson’s name surfaced in trade rumors during the offseason.

The former Pirate returns as Detroit’s top left-handed relief option. Wilson brings a much-needed blend of velocity and swing-and-miss stuff.

Despite posting a 4.14 ERA, the southpaw was one of Tigers’ best reliever last season.

He ranked second among Detroit’s bullpen arms in strikeouts per nine innings, SIERA and strikeout percentage.

Bruce Rondon
Age: 26
Throws: Right-Handed

If Wilson was one of the Tigers best relievers, Bruce Rondon may have been the club’s top bullpen pitcher.

Over the span of 36.1 innings, the hard-throwing right-hander was excellent. Rondon struck out 11.15 batters per nine innings while walking just 2.97 hitter per nine frames. His ERA finished at 2.97.

The right-hander also pitched to a 0.96 WHIP while holding batters to a .178 batting average. What’s more, he posted a 15.8 swinging strike percentage.