Tigers Near Deal with Veteran Reliever Tommy Kahnle

DETROIT, Mich. — The Detroit Tigers are closing in on a deal with veteran right-handed reliever Tommy Kahnle, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. The 35-year-old pitcher, known for his devastating changeup, has been a reliable setup arm when healthy, despite battling injuries in recent years.

Kahnle has pitched 97 innings since 2020, with 83 of those coming over the past two seasons. During that span, he has posted a stellar 2.41 ERA, a 28% strikeout rate, and a 10.6% walk rate. He has also been effective in high-leverage situations, recording 32 holds, four saves, and only two blown saves in 38 save opportunities.

Kahnle’s value lies in his ability to neutralize left-handed batters, despite being a right-handed pitcher. In the 2024 season, he held lefties to a .218 batting average and a .575 OPS, outperforming his numbers against right-handed hitters.

The Tigers’ pursuit of Kahnle marks their second significant free-agent move this offseason, following the signing of second baseman Gleyber Torres to a one-year, $15 million deal. Meanwhile, the New York Yankees, Kahnle’s former team, have shifted their focus to bolstering their bullpen with other acquisitions, including left-hander Max Fried and closer Devin Williams.

Kahnle’s potential departure from the Yankees leaves a gap in their bullpen, particularly against left-handed hitters. The team is expected to seek additional left-handed arms to address this need.

Financial terms of Kahnle’s deal with the Tigers have not yet been disclosed, but Spotrac estimates a potential two-year, $10.7 million contract. The agreement could be finalized in the coming days.