Detroit Tigers All-Time 25-Man Roster
By Matt Snyder
Setup/Closer
Willie Hernandez – Willie Hernandez was an eight-year veteran by the time he joined the Tigers but he certainly made his mark in Detroit. In his first season as a Tiger, he helped the team to the 1984 World Series title as the team’s closer and was an All-Star, Cy Young Award winner and American League MVP. For 1984, Hernandez posted a 1.92 ERA over the course of 140 and a third innings in 80 appearances.
Mike Henneman – Mike Henneman burst on the scene in 1987 to earn Rookie of the Year consideration for his 96 and two third innings of relief work in which he posted a sub-3.00 ERA and finished with a record of 11-3. He was an All-Star just one time (1989) but was a steady presence in the Tigers bullpen during his nine years in Detroit. For his Tigers career, Henneman appeared in 491 games, pitching nearly 670 innings with a 3.05 ERA.
Joel Zumaya – He may not have the career accomplishments of others on this roster in terms of success over time and longevity but there is no questioning the effectiveness of Joel Zumaya as an all-time great before the arm injuries set in. Zuamaya’s career leaves many to wonder “what could have been?”
Jose Valverde – He did not always inspire confidence in the fan base, but for one magical year, Jose Valverde was as automatic as a closer could be. In 2011 Papa Grande appeared in 75 games for the Tigers and converted every one of his 49 save opportunities en route to a 2.24 ERA. In his four seasons with the Tigers he saved 119 games with a 3.22 ERA.
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