Detroit Tigers Send Bruce Rondon To The Minors
Published at(KISSIMMEE, Fla.) — The Detroit Tigers demoted rookie relief pitcher Bruce Rondon to Triple-A Toledo on Thursday.
Before spring training, the Tigers viewed the hard-throwing right-hander as their potential closer, replacing Jose Valverde, who became a free agent after struggling during the playoffs last season.
The Tigers plan to begin the season without a set closer. Their bullpen includes Phil Coke, Joaquin Benoit, Octavio Dotel, Al Alburquerque, Brayan Villarreal, Drew Smyly and Darin Downs.
In 13 spring training games this year with Detroit, Rondon went 2-1 with a 5.84 ERA. He walked nine batters and struck out 19 batters in 12 1-3 innings of work.
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