The Detroit Tigers are having a great 2025 season as they sit on top of the American League. The team has the best record in the league (36-20) and is all set to make their second-straight postseason run. Their impressive blend of rising young hitters and elite starting pitching has made them one of the most well-rounded teams.
However, recent analysis from FanGraphs has highlighted a potentially serious flaw that could threaten the club’s long-term success. Detroit has some of the best pitchers in the league, including some early Cy Young favorites for this 2025 season.
Tarik Skubal, Jack Flaherty, Casey Mize, and the rest of the starting rotation has been great. It’s the bullpen that has an ongoing issue. The Detroit Tigers have an effective bullpen, but they still have a weakness.
Detroit Tigers’ Bullpen Has A Major Strikeout Issue
The team’s bullpen is pretty strong with pitchers like Tommy Kahnle, Will Vest, and Brant Hurter taking the lead. Despite their consistency and standout performance, the unit as a whole ranks just 24th in strikeouts per nine innings according to FanGraphs. That said, the team is in a tough spot while they remain at the bottom in a critical area.
A low strikeout rate means the Detroit Tigers don’t have many relievers who can reliably overpower hitters. Instead, the bullpen relies more on inducing contact and letting the defense do the work, rather than missing bats outright.
Video evidence that Brant Hurter is indeed an athlete. pic.twitter.com/a6ORHxOfN7
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) April 8, 2025
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While their technique might be working well for now, things can fail when the bases are loaded. It’s crucial for pitchers to be able to strike out hitters, especially when there are runners on base. A sacrifice fly will be enough to get a runner home.
The Detroit Tigers’ bullpen ERA is among the league’s best, and the team continues to win close games. While their formula and approach have not cost them yet, it can turn out to be a problem in the future.
If they want to maintain their edge deep into the season and into the playoffs, they may need to address this strikeout deficiency. Detroit is ranked No. 2 in the week 9 MLB power rankings.
Also Read: Today’s Best MLB Home Run Prop Bets: Top 5 Exclusive Picks For May 28, 2025
