The Tigers’ bullpen could have some reinforcements on the way, with righty Wily Peralta and lefty Andrew Chafin making their way back.
Peralta was signed to a minor league deal in mid-March, on the heels of a solid 2021 campaign. In 93 2/3 innings over 18 starts and one relief appearance, he put up an ERA of 3.07. His 14.4% strikeout rate was well below average, but he paired that with a 50.7% ground ball rate. Due to issues with the work visa process, he wasn’t able to report to camp until April 3rd, per Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press. He’s now pitching in the minors and seems to be on a good track. “We’ll probably have a couple outings there where he pitches a day, maybe a day off and pitch again like a reliever,” manager A.J. Hinch tells Petzold. “But we’d like him on our team as soon as he’s ready.” Peralta isn’t currently on the 40-man roster and will require a corresponding move.
As for Chafin, he was signed to a two-year, $13MM contract after having the best season of his career. In 68 2/3 innings between the Cubs and A’s, he had a miniscule 1.83 ERA, along with a 24.1% strikeout rate and 7.1% walk rate. He’s yet to make his debut as a Tiger due to a left groin strain, though he did throw a bullpen yesterday. “It’s the best his arm has felt and his body has felt the entire spring, even when his leg wasn’t injured,” Hinch says. Although there’s no specific timetable, Hinch says “It’s trending in the right direction.”
As for Jose Cisnero, he won’t be re-joining the club any time soon, as he was placed on the 60-day IL to start the season with a strained right shoulder. The good news is that he won’t be undergoing surgery, per Jason Beck of MLB.com. “He’s going to strictly get rid of the inflammation and build strength,” Hinch told Beck. That’s got to be somewhat encouraging for the club’s fans, as Cisnero has had a nice stretch in Detroit. Over the previous three years, he threw 126 2/3 innings of 3.69 ERA ball, with a 24.7% strikeout rate and 10.9% walk rate.
We need no bullpen. We have a Javy Baez.
True that- will drive you crazy with his swing at everything approach that likely won’t age well. But enjoy him now, always capable of the spectacular with baseball IQ off the charts. Really surprised the Mets didn’t make a more concerted effort to keep him.
He’s not worth what he got
Neither are you, hater.
I’ve seen Javy hack at the outside breaking pitch a ton through four games. But this dude is exciting to watch. Tiger fans have waited a while for this type of team. Young and hungry.
With Alexander in the rotation now (and likely again a swingman/long reliever later) plus Soto as closer, Chafin’s arrival would give the Tigers at least one disposable LHP for their bullpen. Peralta’s role seems to be undetermined yet, but a RHP as another swingman/long reliever certainly would be great.
Gruß,
BSHH
I am convinced you’re dead on about Peralta’s upcoming role. With he and Alexander the Tigers will have pitchers with that same role from each side. When is the last time we could say that? The addition of Chafin gives them a viable setup to Soto with Cisnero on the 60 day, or a seventh inning guy with Fulmer in the 8th. Barring injuries, theirs could be the best bullpen they’ve had in many years. At least on paper they would. Of course the game is played on the field. We’ll see how things shake out.
Peralta should start over Alexander.
Peralta did a great job for the Tigers last year stepping into the rotation. He gives us some insurance against injuries. Look forward to his joining the team.
Hoping he works out, but worried that last years numbers are not sustainable. With all the extra pitchers up in the bullpen now, due to the injuries, I’m hoping it leads to finding more depth than they thought they had.
6 more wins and they beat the Superfife challenge.
Go Tigers!
I expect them to exceed my expectations.
But the challenge is still on, Mr. Chris Illich.
A good bullpen? Pepperidge Farms remembers.
The Todd Jones era?