Detroit Tigers: Who takes over as sixth starter?

Chad Bell

On paper, Bell looks like the obvious replacement for Norris. He’s left-handed, he has experience as a starter and as a reliever, and he has big league experience. Indeed that’s what the Tigers were likely thinking when they summoned him from Toledo to replace Norris.

However, Bell is certainly not without his flaws. For starters, he had a hideous 6.93 ERA last season. And while he has some intrigue as a potential LOOGY, his fastball and curveball have posted terrible big league marks. Having him in a multi-inning role would expose his two weakest pitches.

Additionally, while Bell does have starting pitching experience, his 9.39 ERA as a big league starter isn’t the most comforting thing in the world.

The Tigers will give him the opportunity for now, but surely they can find someone in their minor league system who would be more capable in a swing-man role than Bell. Here are some other options: