Among the notable cuts from the Tigers this past week was that of lefty reliever Daniel Stumpf, the team’s Rule 5 Draft selection this offseason. The team placed him on waivers, ultimately signaling his return to his former employer, the Kansas City Royals.
However, after clearing waivers, Stumpf elected free agency as opposed to coming to an agreement with the Royals. He had the option to do so because it was the second time in his career that he was a Rule 5 pick. And in turn, he agreed to terms with the Tigers, this time on a committed major league deal with a guaranteed spot on the 40-man roster.
Lefty reliever Daniel Stumpf elected free agency this morning and has agreed to a major league 40-man contract with the Tigers, I'm told.
— anthony fenech (@anthonyfenech) April 1, 2017
Stumpf wanted to stay with the Tigers; the team liked his arm and that he has all three minor league options remaining.
— anthony fenech (@anthonyfenech) April 1, 2017
Stumpf, just 26 years of age, is a southpaw that could be of great need to the Tigers as the season progresses. This spring, he pitched 8.2 innings and allowed four earned runs and scattering five hits, but opponents hit just .167 off him.
Stumpf has very limited big league experience. The 6-foot-2, 200-pound lefty appeared in seven games with the Phillies last season, finishing three of them, and allowed six earned over just five innings of work. But he’s shown promise with his minor league numbers, a career 3.22 ERA in 139 outings (started in 34, finished 47).
Stumpf missed out on a spot in the bullpen, but should the Tigers need reinforcements from the left side or endure injuries, he will be a prime candidate to promote mid-season. The added luxury of having Stumpf on the 40-man roster is that he has all three of his “option years” remaining.
