DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: AL Central—Seven Closers in Detroit?

Detroit Tigers

Jim Leyland offered little help last week to fantasy owners trying to figure out the Detroit closing situation when he stated that he would be comfortable using any of the seven arms he currently has in the bullpen to close out a game in the ninth. Consistent with Leyland's comments, our playing time projections currently show six different relievers accumulating saves with Joaquín Benoit (RHP, DET) and Phil Coke (LHP, DET) the favorites to be the team leaders saves. The Opening Day bullpen for the Tigers consists of Benoit, Coke, Octavio Dotel (RHP, DET), Al Alburquerque (RHP, DET), Brayan Villareal (RHP, DET), Drew Smyly (LHP, DET), and Darin Downs (LHP, DET). While Dotel has the most closing experience, Benoit served...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Can Jac Caglianone or Isaac Collins give the Royals a productive OF? Plus, looks at the CHW rotation, rookie hitters in Cleveland, the potential impact of Kevin McGonigle in DET, and the Twins bullpen.
Feb 19 2026 3:08am
As we enter spring training, what are some of the major questions for the AL West?
Feb 18 2026 3:08am
Chandler Simpson headlines a crowded outfield competition in Tampa Bay. Plus, an abundance of options are fighting to round out Boston's rotation, and more.
Feb 17 2026 3:05am
With Spring Training games starting this week, questions abound as fresh faces and new issues present themselves in camp, including SP and SS in ATL, RF in MIA & PHI, SS at NYM, 1B at WAS, and more.
Feb 16 2026 3:11am
The NL West has plenty of prospects to be excited about, but finding playing time has been difficult so far. Will their fortunes change in 2026?
Feb 12 2026 3:03am

Tools