Joe Nathan becomes free agent after Tigers decline option
The Detroit Tigers have declined their one-year contract option on Joe Nathan, the team announced Tuesday. Nathan would have been paid $10 million next season if the team picked up the option and will be owed a $1 million buyout.
Nathan, who turns 41 later this month, had Tommy John surgery in April. He said at the time that the surgery, which typically requires a year of recovery time, would not end his career.
Nathan signed a two-year, $20 million deal with the Tigers before the 2014 season and struggled in his one full season with the team. He had a 4.81 ERA and converted 35 of 42 save opportunities in 2014.
Joakim Soria filled in as the Tigers’ closer before he was traded to the Pirates. Bruce Rondon was the primary closer down the stretch.
- Dan Gartland
