Detroit, MI – Jose Valverde's days with the Tigers organization are numbered.
The club revealed on Friday, prior to the second edition of a four-game series with the Boston Red Sox, that the 35-year-old reliever was designated for assignment.
Valverde appeared in 20 games this season, dropping his lone decision and pitching to a 5.59 earned run average (12 ER in 19 1/3 innings), despite recording nine saves.
Concerned about a relief corps thought to be their biggest weakness, the Tigers welcomed Valverde back on a minor league contract in early April after the organization opted not to re-sign him in the offseason following a dismal performance in the playoffs. Valverde gave up nine earned runs in 2 2/3 innings in four total playoff appearances.
The Tigers also recalled pitcher Al Alburquerque and outfielder Avisail Garcia from Triple-A Toledo, while placing outfielder Matt Tuiasosopo on the 15-day disabled list (retroactive to June 20) with a left strained intercostal muscle.
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