The Detroit Tigers have been one of the surprise stories to start the 2025 MLB season. After getting to the ALDS last year, the Tigers currently have the best record in baseball (47-27) and the American League, thanks to their outstanding starting rotation.
Despite this hot start to the season, Detroit still has room for improvement and could look to be buyers at the trade deadline as they search for another bullpen piece and a right-handed power bat.
The Tigers’ bullpen has been good this season (3.72 ERA and 23 saves), but they could be getting a key reinforcement back in the near future.
Tigers' Alex Lange Making Progress Toward Return
According to Evan Woodbury of MLive.com, veteran right-handed reliever Alex Lange made his first rehab start for High-A West Michigan. The last time we saw Lange on the mound was on June 14, 2024, at Triple-A Toledo.
The 29-year-old pitcher reportedly tore his lat and had to undergo an avulsion procedure for the significant injury.
Before being sidelined by the injury, Lange was struggling in the majors with the Tigers. Last season, the veteran pitcher had a career-worst 4.34 ERA across 21 appearances. He allowed 17 walks, 16 hits, 16 runs (nine earned), while recording 21 strikeouts in 18.2 innings pitched.
Opponents were also hitting .232 at the plate against Lange, which isn’t horrible. At the same time, opposing hitters had a .333 BAbip against the right-handed reliever. Lange’s strikeout percentage dropped from 27.4 in 2023 to 23.3 last season.
Additionally, Lange’s walk percentage jumped up from 15.6 in 2023 to 18.9 in 2024. Detroit sent Lange down to the minors in late May last season, where he made nine appearances before the devastating injury.
Woodbury also reports that Lange is expected to make several rehab appearances before the Tigers move him up to pitch against a higher level of competition. If you are a Tigers fan, you hope Lange can return to the majors 100% healthy and look like the pitcher we saw in 2023.