Detroit Tigers Urged to Aggressively Address Bullpen for 2027
AI-generated image · US National Wire
Despite finishing 10 games under .500, the Tigers possess elite offensive talent and a positive run differential, but a lack of high-leverage relief pitching remains a critical hurdle.
The Detroit Tigers finished their season 10 games under .500, but as Sports Illustrated first reported, the team was more competitive than its record suggests, maintaining one of four league-wide positive run differentials over 70. While the starting rotation and position players performed well, Sports Illustrated notes the bullpen struggled in high-leverage situations, resulting in 29 blown saves.
With young talent including Kevin McGonigle, Riley Greene, and Dillon Dingler already producing, and Max Clark and Eduardo Valencia expected to be key offensive pieces in 2027, the team is positioned for a leap. Sports Illustrated suggests General Manager Jeff Greenberg should target New York Yankees closer David Bednar, who recorded 35 saves in 2026 and earned $9 million that year, to stabilize the late innings.
Regarding the rotation, Sports Illustrated reports that bringing back Casey Mize would be a more cost-effective move than pursuing Tarik Skubal, while also suggesting the team target veteran Kevin Gausman. According to Sports Illustrated, avoiding a passive approach this offseason could allow the Tigers to move from fourth place in the AL Central to division winners.