Alex Lange

Lange was outstanding to open 2023, compiling a 1.16 ERA, 0.90 WHIP and 32 strikeouts over the first two months of the season. He shared closing duties in April, but took over in May to convert 8 of Detroit's 9 saves during the month. He maintained the role throughout a disastrous June (11.57 ERA), then rebounded, but his struggles persisted in August with more walks (13) than strikeouts (11) over 10 innings. Lange was bypassed for save chances until he improved his control, but he finished the year with a team-leading 26 saves (15th in the majors). His 15.6% walk rate that was 2nd-worst among qualified relievers, but his 39.1% whiff percentage was in the 99th percentile thanks to his elite curveball and effective changeup, while his K-rate was above-average at 27.4%. Lange has a chance to open 2024 as the Tigers closer, but Detroit may look for a more consistent option this off-season. Read Past Outlooks