Countdown to Spring Training: RHP Enrique Burgos

1/11/2018

The Tigers will open spring training on Feb. 13, which means baseball season is coming. Here is a daily look at players with possible ties to the Mud Hens, whose home opener is set for April 12 against Pawtucket.

RHP Enrique Burgos

History: The Tigers signed Burgos to a minor-league contract as a free agent. He originally pitched for Arizona in 2015 (2-2, two saves, 4.67 ERA) and 2016 (1-2, one save, 5.66 ERA). Burgos began last season in Triple-A in Reno, where he had a 6.23 ERA before he was designated for assignment by Arizona and claimed by the Braves. He never pitched for Atlanta, though, instead posting a 5.24 ERA in 24 games with Gwinnett.

Future: The 27-year-old Panamanian is an intriguing free agent pickup because his fastball regularly sits at 96 mph; his problem has been control, as he has averaged roughly five walks per nine innings through his career. Burgos will compete for a spot in Detroit’s bullpen, and if he does not earn a spot there, he probably will begin the season with the Mud Hens.