DETROIT -- As David Robertson struggled last week, bullpen coach Bobby Thigpen believed from his closing experience that a subtle suggestion might do more than drastic measures.
Thigpen -- who converted 201 of 253 saves in his career -- understands the pass/fail nature of the role and is impressed with how Robertson handled himself. But he also knows how doubt can creep into a closer’s mind when they struggle like Robertson did. Thigpen figured Robertson, who has converted on 31 of 38 tries this season, might be open to -- and benefit from -- a minor change and suggested he lower his arm slot Monday.