BREAKING NEWS: Detroit Tigers makes MLB ranking as.

The Detroit Tigers’ pitching staff was a key factor in their surprising playoff run in 2024. Both the starting rotation and bullpen ranked among the league’s best across several key metrics, showcasing remarkable performance with few weaknesses. Despite trading pitchers like Jack Flaherty and Andrew Chafin midseason, the Tigers’ revamped bullpen and emerging rookies—such as Brant Hurter and Ty Madden—kept them competitive down the stretch.

For much of the season, the Tigers relied on unconventional pitcher usage, often rotating openers, long relievers, and “bullpen games” as injuries limited consistent starting depth. Star pitcher Tarik Skubal led the staff, supported initially by Flaherty, and later by rookies and a resurgent Reese Olson in the postseason. Despite ranking last in innings per start, Detroit’s starters were top five in the majors in ERA, FIP, WHIP, walk rate, ground ball percentage, and more. The bullpen also impressed, leading MLB in categories like ERA, FIP, and opponents’ barrel percentage.

While the lack of strikeouts in the bullpen posed a challenge, pitchers like Beau Brieske and Will Vest excelled, especially in high-leverage situations. Key relievers, including Brant Hurter, Brenan Hanifee, and Will Vest, significantly improved their performance in Detroit. Jason Foley’s efficient saves and Tyler Holton’s league-best ERA over the past two seasons were further bright spots.

The creative bullpen strategy, orchestrated by manager AJ Hinch and pitching coach Chris Fetter, maximized the staff’s strengths and minimized weaknesses. This approach allowed the Tigers to neutralize opposing lineups, with Skubal as the only traditional starter. Despite relying on a mixed group of pitchers, the Tigers emerged as one of MLB’s most effective pitching staffs, crediting Hinch’s innovative game management and Fetter’s coaching.