The Detroit Tigers are in the midst of a real battle in the ALDS with the Seattle Mariners. However this series plays out, the Tigers need to address one thing: getting a real closer to end games.
Fansided’s Mark Powell believes the Tigers can find their closer in San Diego Padres pitcher Robert Suarez, who is expected to opt out this offseason.
“As for possible suitors, one team remaining in the postseason, the Detroit Tigers jump to mind. Detroit used a closer by committee this season, and given Scott Harris' failure to add a top-end relief pitcher at the deadline, why not do so via free agency? Suarez would be a tremendous fit,” Powell wrote.
This season, Suarez was dangerous. He posted a 2.97 ERA, 75 Ks, a WHIP of 0.904 and 40 saves over 70 appearances.
Right now, the Tigers don’t have a true closer. They’ve been going with closer by committee, and as seen in last night’s game, that isn’t really working. Suarez could be the definite answer to close out games.
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Imagining a day with Tarik Skubal pitching a long game, followed by a close by Suarez is pretty unfair. The Tigers could just check off a win in those types of games as long as the offense somewhat shows up.
Hopefully the Tigers give Suarez a call this offseason if he does decide to opt out, and try and finally find themselves a real closer.
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