Tampa Bay Rays Claim Intriguing Lefty Off Waivers From Detroit Tigers

After being placed on waivers this week, former Detroit Tigers' lefty Tyler Alexander has been claimed by the Tampa Bay Rays.

After being placed on waivers earlier this week, now-former Detroit Tigers' lefty Tyler Alexander has been claimed by the Tampa Bay Rays.

MLBTradeRumors had the announcement:

The Rays have claimed left-hander Tyler Alexander off waivers from the Tigers, according to announcements from both clubs. The Tigers had designated the lefty for assignment earlier this week.

It's an intriguing move for the Rays, who have a reputation of being able to get the best out of arms that were let go in other places. Furthermore, the Rays have a need in the starting pitching department. While each team can always use pitching, the Rays really can.

They dealt with massive injuries this past season in that department, with Tyler Glasnow missing time with injury, and Drew Rasmussen, Shane McClanahan and Jeffrey Springs all undergoing season-ending surgeries that will cost them some or all of the 2024 campaign. 

Glasnow also could be traded this offseason in an effort to save money, which would make the need even more extensive.

As for Alexander, he has spent five years in the big leagues, all with the Tigers. He's 11-23 lifetime with a respectable 4.38 ERA. He's served in both starter and reliever roles during his tenure, starting 17 games in the 2022 season. He only started one game this past season but could be converted back to that role if the Rays want.

He won a career-high four games in that 2022 season. The Rays won 99 games this past year but were bounced in the AL wild card series by the eventual World Series champion Texas Rangers.

Follow Fastball on FanNation on social media

Continue to follow our Fastball on FanNation coverage on social media by LIKING us on Facebook and by following us on Twitter @FastballFN.

You can also subscribe to "The Payoff Pitch" podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.