The Detroit Tigers were said to be seeking bullpen help at the trade deadline and were even rumored to be involved in trade talks with the San Diego Padres regarding Joaquin Benoit, a familiar face to those in Motown.
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Of course, the Tigers ended up shocking the baseball world and picked up ace pitcher David Price instead, failing to give their bullpen much of a desired reinforcement.
Knowing options are currently limited, the Tigers have decided to sign former Oakland A’s closer Jim Johnson was was released by the organization a few days ago.
Not all that long ago, Jim Johnson was one of the most dominating closers in baseball though he began to struggle with command during the 2013 season as a member of the Baltimore Orioles. The team stuck with him but Johnson continued to falter, eventually leading to demotion out of the role.
Seeking a possible diamond in the rough, the Oakland A’s, in need of a closer pulled off an offseason trade for Jim Johnson and immediately placed him into the role. He didn’t last long as again Johnson struggled before he was eventually demoted.
Sadly, Johnson couldn’t even pitch in middle relief as he was continually lit up leading to his release.
The Baltimore Orioles expressed interest in reuniting with their former closer but after a workout, the team passed leaving the Detroit Tigers as one of Jim Johnson’s lone suitors. The two agreed on a minor league deal today, this according to Ken Rosenthal.
There’s really no harm here for the Detroit Tigers considering the deal is nothing more than a minor league contract. If he works out, fantastic. If not, he’s a quick release.