In a strategic move to enhance their pitching lineup, the Detroit Tigers have reached a deal with right-handed reliever Tommy Kahnle. According to reports from ESPN, Kahnle’s one-year contract is valued at approximately $7.75 million, pending a physical examination. This decision comes on the heels of the Tigers’ commendable performance last season, where their bullpen played a pivotal role in securing a postseason berth.
The 35-year-old Kahnle’s recent stint with the New York Yankees has solidified his reputation as an elite reliever. With a stellar 2.11 earned run average (ERA) over 42.2 innings last season, he has emerged as one of the most effective pitchers in Major League Baseball (MLB). His documented success over the past two years is underscored by a robust 2.38 ERA, ranking him 11th among all pitchers who have logged at least 80 innings. Kahnle’s ability to generate strikeouts is noteworthy; he amassed an impressive 46 strikeouts against 19 walks in 2024, while also keeping home runs to a minimum.
What distinguishes Kahnle from his peers is his anomalous pitching approach. He has a penchant for using his changeup, throwing it an astounding 73.1% of the time during the last season—significantly higher than any other pitcher in the league. This unconventional strategy, particularly his tendency to pitch backward, keeps hitters guessing and adds an unpredictable element to his game. Kahnle even managed to throw 61 consecutive changeups at one point in the 2024 postseason, showcasing his commitment to this unique method. When paired with his formidable 94-mph fastball and a seldom-used slider, Kahnle becomes a formidable opponent on the mound.
Kahnle’s incorporation into the Tigers‘ bullpen offers manager A.J. Hinch a valuable asset, especially considering that none of the existing relief pitchers heavily utilize a changeup. This diversification in pitching styles will enhance the Tigers‘ flexibility and effectiveness in late-game situations. Last season, due to injuries that plagued their starting rotation, the Detroit bullpen was stretched thin, leading the majors with 141.2 innings pitched in September and finishing third in the league with a remarkable 2.41 ERA during that critical month.
Kahnle’s signing aligns with a broader trend in MLB, where several teams are making aggressive moves to bolster their bullpens. Other recent signings in the league include right-handed pitcher Kirby Yates, who joined the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Ryne Stanek’s agreement with the New York Mets. With numerous quality relievers still available on the market—including veterans like Kenley Jansen, David Robertson, and Adam Ottavino—the Tigers are positioning themselves well within a competitive landscape.
The acquisition of Tommy Kahnle underscores the Detroit Tigers‘ commitment to building a formidable team capable of contending again in next season’s playoffs. With an emphasis on a strong and diverse bullpen, the Tigers are setting the stage for a promising future.
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