clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Tigers sign Joaquin Benoit to three-year deal

By Eli Greenspan
ARLINGTON, TX - OCTOBER 09: Pitcher Joaquin Benoit #53 of the Tampa Bay Rays throws against the Texas Rangers during game 3 of the ALDS at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington on October 9, 2010 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - OCTOBER 09: Pitcher Joaquin Benoit #53 of the Tampa Bay Rays throws against the Texas Rangers during game 3 of the ALDS at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington on October 9, 2010 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Getty Images

The Tigers have signed reliever Joaquin Benoit to a three-year deal worth 16.5 million dollars, according to ESPN.com. Benoit, who pitched last season for the Rays, posted a dominant 1.34 ERA and 75 strike outs with 11 walks. 

This is the first big signing of the offseason and it is significant because it is the Tigers, who are acting very aggressively on the open market. They are never afraid to throw around big money for relievers, and are in need of a bat and sources indicate it could be the Tigers who sign him. 

Benoit will fit in nicely in the Tigers bullpen and should fortify it for the 2011 season. One AL source believes the Tigers may also pursue another lefty in the bullpen, but they will likely work the offensive market first before moving back to the pitching staff. 

More From MLB Daily Dish