Tigers Get Good News on Veteran Bullpen Arm, But Option Rookie With 1.42 ERA

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 1:03 pm

Tigers Bullpen Gets Boost as Veteran Returns, Rookie Sent Down

The Detroit Tigers are riding high, boasting the best record in the American League and the second-best in Major League Baseball. Fresh off a doubleheader sweep against the struggling Colorado Rockies, the Tigers are 25-13, just a hair behind the Los Angeles Dodgers. While the Rockies are struggling, the Tigers' dominant performance highlights their strong start to the season.

Adding to the good news, veteran reliever John Brebbia is set to return to the Tigers' bullpen on Friday. Brebbia, who had a stellar 1.00 ERA before landing on the injured list with a triceps strain, will bolster an already effective pitching staff.

To make room for Brebbia, the Tigers optioned rookie right-handed sidearmer Chase Lee to Triple-A Toledo. Lee, who made his MLB debut on April 22nd, had impressed with a 1.42 ERA in his short stint, despite not allowing a run in his first four appearances. Lee's journey to the majors is noteworthy, having walked onto the Alabama baseball team after initially quitting to study aerospace engineering. He was drafted by the Texas Rangers in 2021 and traded to the Tigers last year. Outfielder Brewer Hicklen was also called up to fill the roster spot, but is expected to be sent back down with Brebbia's return.

BNN's Perspective: While it's disappointing for Chase Lee to be sent down after a promising start, the return of a veteran like Brebbia is a strategic move for the Tigers. Balancing the development of young talent with the need for experienced arms is crucial for a team aiming for a deep playoff run. The Tigers are clearly prioritizing winning now, and that's understandable given their strong position.

Keywords: Detroit Tigers, MLB, baseball, John Brebbia, Chase Lee, Rockies, bullpen, relief pitcher, ERA, injury, option, Triple-A, rookie, American League, AL, win, doubleheader, Coors Field, Brewer Hicklen, trade, Texas Rangers, Alabama baseball, playoffs

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