Report: Pitcher Bruce Rondon Called Up to Detroit Tigers

According to MLive.com's Chris Iott, on April 23 the Detroit Tigers called up rookie pitcher Bruce Rondon from Triple-A Toledo and placed pitcher Octavio Dotel on the disabled list.

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The Tigers announced this afternoon that they have recalled Rondon and placed Octavio Dotel on the disabled list.

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Rondon, who was expected to become the closer for the Tigers this season, struggled with his control in spring training and the Tigers decided he need to start the season in Triple-A.

Without a full-time closer on the roster the Tigers started the season with a closer-by-committee system. However, no pitcher in the bullpen stepped up and seized the closer role. Now, with Rondon on the major league roster, it wouldn't be a surprise if he eventually becomes the Tigers' closer.

 The questions surrounding Rondon have always been around his control, but not his pitching ability. However, at Toledo Rondon has pitched in 7.2 innings without allowing a run, while striking out nine and only walking two. 

If Rondon continues throwing the way he has this season, then this answers a key question for the Tigers in their pursuit of a World Series title. At the same time, this would allow the other pitchers in the bullpen to have a more defined role, which would make them more comfortable.

While no one knows for sure how Rondon will perform, the Tigers have handled Rondon's situation brilliantly so far by allowing himself to get confidence in Triple-A.

*All statistics are as of April 23

 **All statistics are from baseball-reference.com

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