Tigers' Francisco Rodriguez: Removal from closer role unlikely

The Tigers aren't expected to remove Rodriguez from the closer job in the near future, if they consider it at all this year, Anthony Fenech of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Analysis:

It may not necessarily be a strong endorsement of Rodriguez's remaining skills, but more of a realization that they don't really have an option behind him in the bullpen with which they'd feel comfortable. Manager Brad Ausmus did acknowledge that "at some point, he does have to pitch the way he pitched last year, because he did an outstanding job for us last year and in a city that has been looking for a closer that was consistent for a long time, he was that." The relief crew behind K-Rod would likely dictate a committee situation led by left-hander Justin Wilson, but Joe Jimenez, who many consider the future of the position for Detroit, may get a shot down the road if Rodriguez continues to throw junk.