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The Tigers are again attempting to shore up their bullpen, this time by signing Jim Johnson to a minor-league deal, reports Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports.
Johnson, 31, was released by the A's last week. This is an important factor, because we shouldn't get caught up in Johnson signing a "minor-league" deal. He's making $10 million this season, paid by Oakland. The signing team of a player who has been released is only responsible for the prorated league minimum fo the remainder of the season. So the Tigers can roster Johnson as soon as they wish.
A former All-Star closer, Johnson has struggled mightily this season. He has a 7.14 ERA, 2.06 WHIP and 28 strikeouts against 23 walks in 40 1/3 innings. He was very good in 2012 and effective last season, too, so it's worth a shot to grab him on the cheap.
The Tigers rank 28th in baseball in bullpen ERA, sporting a 4.53 mark. They have 14 bullpen losses and 10 blown saves.
