Detroit Tigers: 4 options to replace Gregory Soto as the team's closer in 2023

Closer by committee

This last one might be the most realistic option. A.J. Hinch has mentioned several times that he doesn't really like the term "closer." He prefers to use the best reliever in the right situation. He finally caved and called Gregory Soto the closer last season.

The Tigers are likely to cycle through many relievers in 2023. Guys like Jason Foley, Rony Garcia, Rule 5 selection Mason Englert, Reese Olson, and a slew of others could see some time out of the bullpen.

Hinch will simply gauge the situation based on who's available and make the decision from there. If he needs a strikeout, he'll go to Lange. If he needs a double play ball, he'll go to Foley. If he just needs someone to eat an inning or two, Garcia could be the guy.

The bullpen is going to look a lot different in 2023. Hinch is going to mix and match based on the situation. We may even see multiple relievers with double-digit saves this season. The closer's role isn't as important as it used to be, especially for a team that's not going to contend.

Needless to say, it's going to be an interesting year for the Detroit Tigers' bullpen in 2023.