In this Tigers rumors and news update, the Detroit Tigers' reported interest in Philadelphia Phillies closer Jonathan Papelbon could lead to the team making an extraordinary financial commitment to the back of its bullpen.
According to Jon Morosi of FOX Sports 1 (via Tony Paul of the Detroit News), the Tigers would have to verge into New York Yankees-esque territory if they decide that Papelbon is the man to replace Joe Nathan as closer:
If the Tigers' concerns about Nathan increase in the days ahead to the point that they think they have to get a closer, then I think Papelbon re-enters the consideration. Obviously, Papelbon is owed a lot of money. They’d end up paying, effectively, two closers for next season, which is again something of a Yankees-like move, when they had (Mariano) Rivera and (Rafael) Soriano at the same time.
Detroit Tigers owner Mike Ilitch wouldn't balk at making such a move if he feels it to be necessary. However, don't be surprised if the Tigers look elsewhere for cheaper and more flexible options to improve their bullpen as a whole.
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