2014 Detroit Tigers Pitching Staff: A Retrospective
The 2014 Detroit Tigers pitching staff was a key component of a team that reached the ALDS. Featuring veteran starters like Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander alongside emerging talents, the staff aimed for a World Series title but ultimately fell short. This article examines the performance and key players of that year’s Tigers pitching rotation and bullpen.
Starting Rotation
The Tigers’ starting rotation in 2014 was headlined by several established names. Max Scherzer, coming off a Cy Young Award-winning season, anchored the staff. Justin Verlander, though not at his peak, still provided valuable innings. Rick Porcello had a career year, demonstrating improved command and effectiveness. Anibal Sanchez also contributed, although injuries limited his appearances. David Price was acquired mid-season from the Tampa Bay Rays to bolster the rotation even further, adding another dominant arm to the mix. According to Wikipedia’s 2014 Detroit Tigers season page, the team held a strong record.
Bullpen Performance
The bullpen in 2014 was a mix of experienced relievers and younger arms. Joe Nathan, the closer, experienced some struggles, leading to some instability at the end of games. Joba Chamberlain and Phil Coke were also key members, providing innings in middle relief. Ian Krol and Al Alburquerque pitched in late-inning situations. The overall performance of the bullpen was inconsistent, and a point of concern throughout the season. Their performance contributed to some blown leads and close losses.
Key Pitchers and Statistics
Max Scherzer
Scherzer continued to be a dominant force, posting a solid ERA and leading the team in strikeouts. He was a consistent presence at the top of the rotation.
Justin Verlander
Verlander, while showing signs of decline compared to his prime years, still provided quality starts and veteran leadership.
Rick Porcello
Porcello had a breakout year, showcasing improved command and control, resulting in a career-best ERA and win total.
David Price
Acquired at the trade deadline, Price immediately became the ace of the staff, delivering dominant performances down the stretch.
FAQs
Who was the closer for the Detroit Tigers in 2014?
Joe Nathan was the closer for the Detroit Tigers in 2014.
How did the Detroit Tigers pitching staff perform in the playoffs?
The pitching staff struggled in the playoffs, contributing to the Tigers’ loss in the ALDS. Key starters did not pitch up to their potential and the bullpen had some critical breakdowns.
Who were the key starting pitchers for the 2014 Detroit Tigers?
The key starting pitchers were Max Scherzer, Justin Verlander, Rick Porcello, and Anibal Sanchez. David Price was added mid-season.
What was Rick Porcello’s ERA in 2014?
Rick Porcello had an ERA of 3.43 in 2014, a career best.
How many games did David Price start for the Tigers in 2014 after being traded?
David Price started 11 games for the Tigers after being traded from the Rays.
Summary
The 2014 Detroit Tigers pitching staff had a mix of strengths and weaknesses. The starting rotation, led by Scherzer, Verlander, Porcello, and Price, was a definite strength. The bullpen, however, was inconsistent and contributed to some losses. Despite the talent on the staff, the team ultimately fell short of its World Series aspirations, losing in the ALDS.
Leave a Reply