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The Detroit Tigers really need help with their bullpen, the group of pitchers who come in during the last few innings. There are only four days left until the MLB trade deadline, and fixing the bullpen should be the team’s top priority.
This problem became clear during a recent game against the Toronto Blue Jays. The Tigers had a big lead going into the ninth inning, but still gave up four runs. They even had to get their closer ready, which is not normal when you’re ahead by so much. It showed how shaky and unreliable the bullpen can be.
If the Tigers want to make the playoffs, they need pitchers who can finish games without giving up runs. Right now, the bullpen is too risky. A weak bullpen can ruin a team’s chances in the postseason, no matter how strong the rest of the team is.
Some of the current relievers, like Tommy Kahnle, Tyler Holton, Chase Lee, and Dietrich Enns, have not been doing well. Only Will Vest and Brant Hurter have been reliable, but they can’t do it alone. The Tigers need to add at least one more good reliever to help them finish games strong.
There are a few solid pitchers they could trade for. David Bednar or Dennis Santana from the Pirates could be options. Ryan Helsley from the Cardinals and Raisel Iglesias from the Braves might also be available. These pitchers wouldn’t cost too much and could make a big difference.
The Tigers have to make a move before the deadline. If they don’t, their bullpen could continue to cause problems and hurt their chances of reaching the playoffs.