The Detroit Tigers may be off to a 3-2 start, but if you have been following the team so far this season, you have to be disgusted with the performance of the bullpen.
So far, in 5 games, the Tigers bullpen has posted a horrendous 8.47 ERA in 17 innings pitched.
Well, on Monday, following a delay in opening up the clubhouse, we have learned that the Tigers are making a move with the hopes of improving their bullpen situation. According to reports, GM Al Avila has notified reporters that Bruce Rondon has been optioned to Toledo and phenom Joe Jimenez has been called up.
Bruce Rondon optioned out. Joe Jimenez called up
— Chris McCosky (@cmccosky) April 10, 2017
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For those of you who have been paying attention, Jimenez has been lights out as he has quickly climbed through the minor leagues. In fact, in 2016, in over 53 innings of work, Jimenez posted a microscopic 1.51 ERA and an even more impressive 0.80 WHIP while allowing just a .144 batting average against.
The Tigers were hoping to allow Jimenez to develop a bit more in the minors this season, but their hand was forced with the early struggles in the bullpen.
Our own Paul Rochon was on Facebook Live on Sunday night calling for this move to be made, see what he had to say by watching the video below.
Rondon, after seemingly finding himself in 2016, has been erratic so far this season, prompting the move by Al Avila. In three games, the Tigers flamethrower has posted an ERA of 40.50 while giving up four hits and three walks in 1.1 innings of work.
Given that this is Jimenez’s first shot in the show, it’s very important to stay patient. He has a very lively arm, and a decent slider, that some would say is not just a work in progress. However, Jimenez is also not unaccustomed to big situations. He pitched in the World Baseball this past March for team Puerto Rico and fared quite well.
Regardless, the news is refreshing for Tigers fans. Welcome to the show, Joe Jimenez.
