Detroit Tigers face offseason challenges in bullpen and defense

The Detroit Tigers face several roster challenges heading into the upcoming offseason following a season marked by significant bullpen struggles and defensive deficiencies. The team set a Major League Baseball record by blowing 68 leads, including 32 blown saves, contributing to a fourth-place finish in the American League Central.

To address the bullpen, the Tigers are looking toward the free agent market. Potential targets include Pete Fairbanks, who previously posted a 2.98 ERA with the Tampa Bay Rays, and other high-level relievers like David Bednar and Adrian Morejon. The team also faces decisions regarding existing contracts, such as Kenley Jansen’s $12 million option for 2027.

On the pitching front, the organization must navigate the free agency of Tarik Skubal after trading him to the Los Angeles Dodgers for prospects. This follows a similar pattern to the previous offseason when the team traded Jack Flaherty to the Dodgers.

Defensively, the Tigers' infield struggled, recording the fourth-worst Fielding Run Value in the league. The shortstop position, in particular, has been a point of concern, with players like Javier Baez and Trey Sweeney contributing to a negative defensive value, while Zach McKinstry has remained a notable exception with positive defensive marks.