Detroit Tigers: Breaking down and reconstructing for next year

Starting Pitchers

Fulmer, Verlander, Daniel Norris, Warwick Saupold, Chad Bell

That is my five.  The first three are pretty standard.  Fulmer is the ace, Verlander following, and a progressing Norris as a strong number three.

These are the only guys I would honestly call a lock to be in the rotation next year.

Even with Verlander showing age he will still be a competitor next season and that is what the Detroit Tigers will need.

Even if he gets outshined by the rest of the staff, he should start game two to open the season.

Saupold has been impressive in his starts in Triple A and has been good out of the bullpen this season.

To be more specific, Saupold has a 2.90 ERA in seven starts at the Triple A level.  He carries a 2.75 ERA through eleven appearances for the Detroit Tigers.

He has absolutely earned the chance to break into the starting rotation.

Bell has been extremely impressive in the long relief role.  In seven appearances he has logged 18.1 innings with a 2.45 ERA.

Out of any bullpen arm in 2017, Bell has been the most reliable and surprising.  He should have no problem proving his worth as a starter.

He will soon take over a rotation spot and not let go.