Free agent closer Joe Nathan has interest in signing with the Detroit Tigers, and the interest is mutual, according to a report.
FOX MLB reporter Jon Morosi reports that mutual interest has developed between the two parties and that Nathan has Detroit high on his wish list.
Such interest makes plenty of sense.
Closer has been a critical spot for the Tigers ever since Jose Valverde got blown up in the 2011 and 2012 playoffs. Joaquin Benoit saved 27 games for the team last season and was good in the role, but he struggled in the 2013 postseason.
Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski recently said that he wanted to bring in an experienced closer, and Nathan would certainly fit that bill.
Nathan is turning 39 soon, but he is coming off a great season with the Texas Rangers where he went 6-2 with a 1.39 ERA. He declined his mutual option for 2014 because he wants a multi-year deal, and the Tigers would likely give him one. This would be a great fit for both parties and would make the Tigers an even stronger contender for the World Series.
