Rondon, Marte to Toledo, One Cut Remaining

     In a wholly surprise move despite his rough spring, Bruce Rondon has been optioned to Toledo along with Luis Marte leaving the roster at 26 men left in big league camp.  Despite his struggles, almost everyone had written Rondon in as part of the bullpen. The Tigers were expected to work him slowly into the closer role by using him in 2 or 3 run save situations until he proved ready for a full-time closer role. Consider this humble blogger surprised by this move, but it may be the correct one.

Closer Situation:

     As it was expected, even if Rondon broke camp with the Tigers, the club will go with a closer by committee approach.  Rondon will just not be a part of that committee as was expected. His roster spot was given to Darin Downs who has had a great spring, a solid showing last year at the big league level, and is a Major League pitcher.  His presence also gives the Tigers a valuable second late inning lefty as Drew Smyly will occupy a long relief role on the club.  Downs' presence allows the Tigers some flexibility to use Phil Coke as part of the closing committee as they won't need to use him to get a lefty in the seventh or eighth inning. Also, the arms of Brayan Villareal, Al Alburquerque, and Joaquin Benoit all can be serviceable in a closing role. No manager wants to go closer by committee, but it looks like Jim Leyland will have to go that route at least to start the year.
 
     This leaves just one cut left to make before the opening day lineup is set. Look for that to come either today or tomorrow. That spot is between Ramon Santiago and Danny Worth to fulfill the utility infielder role off the bench. Clearly, general manager Dave Dombrowski is holding out to see if someone will trade for Santiago. If no one wants to make a deal for him, look for him to head north with the club.