Tigers GM unsure of Hanrahan's status this season
The Detroit Tigers took another chance on reliever Joel Hanrahan this offseason, though it remains to be seen if - or when - the injury-plagued right-hander pitches for the team.
"He's been cleared and he's getting ready for spring training," general manager Dave Dombrowski told Chris McCosky of the Detroit News. However, he was cautious when comparing Hanrahan with other Tigers returning from injuries or surgeries.
"In his case, though, it's different. I feel confident (Jose) Iglesias will be fine. I am confident (Miguel) Cabrera will be fine, though the exact date I don't know. And I am confident (Bruce) Rondon is going to be fine.
"With Hanrahan, he feels good and he's working himself up to spring training. But the key is going to be when he goes out there and has to throw hard on a consistent basis. He has to be able to bounce back before we can see."
The Tigers inked the 33-year-old to a one-year deal last May and planned to bring him along slowly after missing almost all of the 2013 season following Tommy John surgery. However, Hanrahan was shut down for the remainder of the season in July after suffering a setback during a bullpen session.
Despite his recent injury history, the Tigers inked the former two-time All-Star to a minor-league deal in November.