Tigers Seek Major Bullpen Reinforcements with Finnegan and Williams
The Detroit Tigers are poised for a transformative offseason, with a focus on fortifying their bullpen. As they strategize their next steps, two players stand out as potential game-changers: Devin Williams and Kyle Finnegan.
Navigating the Skubal Situation
At the forefront of the Tigers’ offseason plans is the future of Tarik Skubal. The left-handed pitcher has emerged as one of the premier talents in baseball, and his rumored pursuit of record-setting contract offers raises questions about his long-term fit with the team. Skubal’s absence would undoubtedly create a void, significantly impacting the Tigers’ competitiveness.
The organization has been on the cusp of postseason success, falling just short of the American League Championship Series in the last two seasons. With that in mind, trading Skubal for a substantial haul could be a viable option. However, such a move might signal a retreat from immediate contention, as the Tigers aim to capitalize on Skubal’s talent while he remains under contract. Consequently, retaining him for another season appears to be the preferred route, especially as the Tigers gear up for a serious World Series push.
Strategic Focus on the Bullpen
To complement their ace and bolster their chances, the Tigers recognize the urgent need to enhance their bullpen. A robust relief corps is essential for any championship-caliber team, and the additions of Finnegan and Williams could elevate Detroit’s bullpen to elite status.
Finnegan’s Impactful Return
Reacquiring Kyle Finnegan, who was a standout performer after joining the Tigers from the Washington Nationals, should be a no-brainer for Detroit. Known for his second-half struggles in previous seasons, Finnegan defied the odds after his trade. He posted an impressive 1.50 ERA across 16 appearances for the Tigers, tallying 23 strikeouts against just four walks in 18 innings pitched.
Though an injury limited his contributions toward the end of the season, Finnegan demonstrated his worth by stepping up as a high-leverage option during the playoffs. Concerns about the sustainability of his performance are valid, but with the guidance of Detroit’s strong pitching coaches, he could maintain his effectiveness. Finnegan has expressed a desire to stay in Detroit, and with an estimated market value of two years and $20 million, securing his services seems both reasonable and advantageous for the Tigers.
Williams: A Late-Game Solution?
On the other hand, Devin Williams presents a more complex case. After being acquired by the New York Yankees with the intention of becoming their closer, Williams faced a challenging season, culminating in a demotion from that role due to early struggles. His final ERA of 4.79 marked a downturn, with an ERA+ below the league average for the first time in his career.
However, a deeper dive into the numbers reveals a more favorable picture. Williams’ expected ERA stood at 3.07, indicating that he may have been a victim of unfortunate circumstances rather than a decline in skill. His ability to induce swings and misses, coupled with a refined approach, could make him a valuable asset in a late-game role if he can regain his form.
A Vision for the Future
As the Tigers approach a pivotal offseason, the potential signings of Finnegan and Williams could significantly reshape their bullpen landscape. By addressing their relief pitching needs, Detroit can enhance their competitiveness and align their roster for a genuine championship run, ensuring that they maximize the window of opportunity while they have Skubal leading the charge.
