Detroit Tigers relievers have struggled in past seasons. From higher-profile names like Joe Nathan, Jose Valverde and Joba Chamberlain to lesser-known players like Jeff Ferrell, Ian Krol and Chad Smith, all manner of relief pitchers have had a hard time finding success coming out of the Detroit bullpen.
Thankfully, the Tigers (namely general manager Al Avila) has done a tremendous job in rebuilding the team’s relief corps. With new additions coming in, some ineffective incumbents had to go.
For some reason, the Pittsburgh Pirates seem to have an affinity for Detroit relievers.