Detroit Tigers likely to exercise $9-million options on relief pitcher Jose Valverde – MLB News
According to some media reports, the Detroit Tigers are expected to exercise 9-million-dollar options on their talented relief pitcher Jose Valverde.
The pitcher could not show the expected amount of commitment in the 2011 Major League Baseball (MLB) season especially with his team which undoubtedly moved very close to qualify for the World Series. The Texas Rangers defeated them in the American League
Championship Series.
Coming on to Valverde’s contract, still no official from the Tigers and from Jose has commented on the recent situation of his contract but a renowned sports journalist did mention regarding Tigers and Valverde’s future. That particular reporter left a comment
on a social media website (Twitter), “#tigers are expected to soon pick up the $9M option on perfect closer Jose valverde (49 for 49 in reg season).”
Later, many reporters tried to ask from Valverde’s agent regarding this comment but they could not get any information from him. Valverde’s record of 49-for-49 and converting saves in the regular season is the main reason why the Tigers management has now
decided to exercise options on his contract. He was not influential in the past season and did not pitch with full throttle and remained inflexible in 8.6 per nine innings and walking a record 34 batters in 72 innings also shows his demeaning performance throughout
the season.
However, many still believe that Valverde is relatively a very productive pitcher. One particular bad season cannot judge anybody’s game and this is the only season where his performance waivered. But, overall his career 3.02 ERA average along with 2.24,
3.00, 2.33, 3.38 and 2.66 for last five years can clearly tell you about his tremendous pitching skills.
The Tigers on the other hand may not think his need in their franchise for future seasons and are considering options on his current contract. Things are also looking very cautious as it is unknown as to where he will be heading if the Tigers decided to
let him go. Though, releasing from the Tigers will make him a free agent but finding another team at the age of 33 will certainly be a tough task for Valverde.
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