Divisional Outlook: AL Central—Valverde out, Benoit in ... maybe?

Detroit Tigers

Jose Valverde (RHP, DET) was designated for assignment after blowing three saves, compiling a 5.59 ERA and giving up six HRs in 19.1 IP. The Tigers hope Valverde will clear waivers and accept a minor league assignment. Valverde was not as bad as surface stats suggest. His 102 BPV was his best since 2008, and his xERA of 3.90 and a 24% hr/f rate suggest some bad luck. If he does stay in the organization, he may well return later in the season.

Joaquín Benoit (RHP, DET) will take over 9th inning duties, but manager Jim Leyland has been vocal about his reluctance to use Benoit on consecutive days. Benoit has been outstanding so far this year, converting all four of his save opportunities while putting up a 2.01 ERA/1.02...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

As we enter spring training, what are some of the major questions for the AL West?
Feb 18 2026 3:08am
Chandler Simpson headlines a crowded outfield competition in Tampa Bay. Plus, an abundance of options are fighting to round out Boston's rotation, and more.
Feb 17 2026 3:05am
With Spring Training games starting this week, questions abound as fresh faces and new issues present themselves in camp, including SP and SS in ATL, RF in MIA & PHI, SS at NYM, 1B at WAS, and more.
Feb 16 2026 3:11am
The NL West has plenty of prospects to be excited about, but finding playing time has been difficult so far. Will their fortunes change in 2026?
Feb 12 2026 3:03am
The reality of Byron Buxton's injury history necessitates having a CF backup plan in place, but the Twins' current plan is unclear. Plus, a look at 2B for CWS and CLE, rotation depth for the Tigers, and the saves situation in KC.
Feb 10 2026 3:04am

Tools