Tuesday, January 19, 2010

TIGERS AGREE TO TERMS WITH JOSE VALVERDE

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers today announced the club has agreed to terms with righthanded pitcher Jose Valverde on a two-year contact with a club option for the 2012 season.

Valverde compiled a 4-2 record, 2.33 ERA (54.0IP/14ER) and 25 saves in 52 outings for the Houston Astros during the 2009 season. He fanned 56 batters during the season, while he limited opponents to a .207 batting average (40x193).

“We are pleased to add a premier closer like Jose Valverde to our club,” Tigers President, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager David Dombrowski said. “His addition fills what we felt was our biggest need and he solidifies the back end of our bullpen to strengthen our pitching staff.”

In seven seasons at the major league level with the Arizona Diamondbacks (2003-07) and Astros (2008-09), Valverde has posted a 19-19 record, 3.17 ERA (386.0IP/136ER) and 167 saves in 379 career outings. He has struck out 470 batters over his career, while limiting opponents to a .208 batting average (296x1424).

Valverde is second among all National League pitchers with 116 saves since the start of the 2007 season, trailing only Francisco Cordero’s 117 saves. Valverde was selected to the National League’s all-star squad in 2007.

Additionally, the Tigers today announced the club has received cash considerations from the San Diego Padres to complete the Dusty Ryan trade on December 21, 2009.

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