The Detroit Tigers are Fun! Watch now for 2022

The 2022 Detroit Tigers Bullpen

In the bullpen returning I have Gregory Soto, Kyle Funkhouser, Jose Cisnero if he is not traded and Michael Fulmer depending on health. Daniel Norris, I would let walk and I would also look into replacing Bryan Garcia, Tyler Alexander, and Joe Jimenez.

I would not go crazy spending here, but a solid veteran or two, pick your favorites from the available list and drop me your comments on why, I am not finicky on who is brought aboard, as reliever arms are wild cards from year to year seemingly. Then Al Avila can fill out the rest of the pen internally or with players signed to minor league deals with invites to spring training.

Is this team a playoff contender in 2022? Not likely but we could at least dream about an “if everything goes right” scenario without being laughed out of the room. Would it represent a significant step forward and potentially flirt with .500? I think that is a possibility. 2023, when I have the positional player Big 3 of Torkelson, Greene, and Dingler penciled into the Opening Day lineup is when things will really get exciting.

Until then, watch the performances of the players we continue to roll in and out this year, I expect Kody Clemens to get a look here soon as well, and we will figure out over time how the roster will look for next year and beyond. Keep your eyes open on our minor league coverage for other prospects to raise their profile and move into the late 2022/early 2023 conversation.

I will revisit this article with a 2.0 edition after the trade deadline on July 30th when we know who is left standing and we have another month of performances from players fighting for their jobs to factor into the equation. Until then, enjoy no more cold evenings at Comerica Park until September and watch the AJ Hinch Tigers compete with your eyes towards the not-so-distant future for a change!