Detroit Tigers: Reported Probable Starters for Upcoming Stretch

Detroit Tigers pitchers haven’t had the most successful spring. Per the latest report from the Detroit Free Press’ Antony Fenech, we know Detroit’s probable starters for the next stretch.

Detroit Tigers starting pitchers have been a bright spot so far for the team in Grapefruit League action.

Blow outs have been a semi-regular occurrence so far, but Brad Ausmus’ starters have looked encouraging.

Michael Fulmer and Daniel Norris have yet to allow a run in a combined 7.2 innings of work, while Jordan Zimmermann seems to be at the beginning of a bounce-back season.

The veteran right-hander has looked the part so far in Spring Training, giving up just four hits, two walks and one run in two outings.

Elsewhere, Justin Verlander has also shown encouraging signs as the Tigers inch closer and closer to Opening Day in Chicago.

Now, according to the latest report from Anthony Fenech of the Detroit Free Press, we have an idea of how the Tigers rotation will look over the next stretch of games.

Fenech tweeted on Monday morning:

"“Other upcoming probables: Justin Verlander on Tues., Anibal Sanchez on Thurs., Jordan Zimmermann on Fri., Daniel Norris on Sat.”"

Of the pitchers reported by Fenech as starters for the coming slate of games, Sanchez has struggled the most.

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In two relief outings this spring, the former Marlin has been tagged for nine hits, eight runs (seven earned), three walks and two home runs.

That equates to a .529 batting average and a 4.50 WHIP.

The sample size is obviously small, however Sanchez’ stats in Grapefruit League play are reminiscent of his 2016 numbers.

In 153.1 frames of action for the Tigers last season, the pitcher logged just a 0.8 WAR. Additionally, he posted a 5.87 ERA, a 5.06 FIP and a 1.46 WHIP.

Sanchez also allowed 10 hits, 2.55 walks and 1.76 home runs per nine innings.

2017 Role

In an ideal situation, the Detroit Tigers will deploy a starting rotation that consists of Verlander, Fulmer, Zimmermann, Norris and Matt Boyd.

This leaves little room for Sanchez, who might be forced to battle for a bullpen job.

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He’d certainly provide value as a swingman, but not if he continues to allow so many hitters to not only reach base, but also score.