Bruce Rondon has made four appearances this spring spanning 3-2/3 innings: three runs, five hits, five walks, six strikeouts. His ERA is 7.36. While the Detroit Tigers continue to downplay the struggles of their young right-hander, clearly something had to be done. Rondon’s latest meltdown came yesterday against the Atlanta Braves when he gave up, a home run, a groundout, walk, RBI double, ground out, and a strikeout in one inning of work.
Rondon will miss his next game assignment to work on mechanical problems at Tiger own complex in Lakeland Florida. Rondon Didn’t get a reading endorsement from manager Jim Leyland as he spoke on the CBS Sports Radio Network.
“I think my number one concern right now is the closer’s situation. I don’t think you can try to hide from that — tell the people what you truly believe. I am concerned about that, there’s no question about that. That’s just the way it is … I am worried a little bit about that closer’s situation to be honest with you, and I am a little bit concerned about the bullpen if you have to put too much stress on them.
Externally solutions include, Jose Valverde who was the Tigers closer the last 3 seasons is available,as is former Giants closer Brian Wilson, who is recovering from elbow surgery, and the Tigers seem willing to move starting pitcher Rick Porcello in a trade.
The Tigers have a formidable starting rotation, but it’s not likely that GM Dave Dombrowski will sit tight going forward without addressing the issue.
