The Detroit Tigers have strengthened their bullpen options by signing right-handed pitcher Scott Effross to a minor-league contract, which includes an invitation to spring training. This move adds to the already substantial list of relief pitchers heading to Joker Marchant Stadium next month, highlighting the team’s commitment to bolstering its pitching staff for the upcoming season.
As of now, the Tigers have twelve relievers on their 40-man roster, with an additional nine expected to join when pitchers and catchers report on February 12, 2024. Effross, who is 32 years old, brings a unique arm slot and a mix of pitches that the Tigers find appealing. His sidearm delivery has been effective, particularly against left-handed hitters, who have managed just a .191 batting average against him over four seasons in Major League Baseball.
Effross’s last fully healthy season was in 2022 when he played for both the Chicago Cubs and the New York Yankees. During that year, he achieved a commendable 2.54 ERA and a 1.059 WHIP, along with 62 strikeouts over 56.2 innings. Unfortunately, he has faced significant injury challenges since then, including Tommy John surgery and a back operation, which sidelined him for all of 2023 and much of 2024.
Effross’s potential return to form could mirror the impact that side-armer Chase Lee had for the Tigers last season before he was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays. The Tigers have also made notable offseason moves, securing veteran relievers Kenley Jansen and Kyle Finnegan to enhance their bullpen depth. Jansen signed a one-year deal worth $11 million, while Finnegan’s contract spans two years for $19 million. Both are expected to play crucial roles alongside Will Vest and Tyler Holton in manager AJ Hinch‘s plans for the 2024 season.
In addition to Effross, the Tigers are evaluating several other pitchers for potential roles in their bullpen. The 40-man roster includes right-handers Beau Brieske, Brenan Hanifee, Ty Madden, and Dylan Smith, as well as left-handers Bailey Horn, Brant Hurter, and Drew Sommers. Another lefty, Jake Miller, is also on the roster but is recovering from Tommy John surgery and is not expected to be ready for camp.
General manager Jeff Greenberg expressed optimism regarding the team’s offseason strategy, stating, “We feel we have addressed several of our biggest needs coming into the offseason. We wanted to add impact arms at the back end of the ‘pen and we did that. On the other hand, we’re also going to stay open-minded to finding additional ways to make this team better.”
Last season, the Tigers relied on a staggering 29 different relief pitchers, excluding position players, underscoring the need for a strong and versatile bullpen. The influx of new talent in 2024 reflects the organization’s commitment to improving its competitive standing in Major League Baseball. With Effross now on board, fans can anticipate an exciting spring training as the team prepares for the upcoming challenges.
