According to Jim Bowden of MLB Network Radio and ESPN.com, the Tigers expressing interest in free agent LHP Joe Saunders after the Diamondbacks non-tendered him earlier in the week.
Here is the scouting report on Saunders via MLBTradeRumors.com…
Saunders, 30, posted a 3.69 ERA with 4.6 K/9, 2.8 BB/9 and a 44.5% ground ball rate in 212 innings this past season. He has averaged 200 innings per season since 2008 without striking out more than five batters per nine innings in any of the past four seasons. The former 12th overall pick had an average fastball velocity of 89.6 mph in 2011.
The Tigers are currently looking for an arm to add to their 2012 rotation after letting veteran Brad Penny become a free agent. The team has been linked to Oakland’s Gio Gonzalez in recent weeks however seem hesitant to part with third base prospect Nick Castellanos.
Saunders would provide the Tigers with a nice veteran lefty arm in a starting rotation that is exclusively right-handed.
Ref: ESPN, MLB Network, Twitter, MLBTradeRumors, Zimbio (image)
