Tigers claim ex-Phillies, Rays 23-year-old righty reliever prospect

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Tigers claim ex-Phillies, Rays 23-year-old righty reliever prospect originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Detroit Tigers are struggling a bit this season, starting the year with a 7-9 record, only one game ahead of the Chicago White Sox for last place in the AL Central.

But there are still some quality players on the roster that should give the Tigers a chance to bounce back. And recently, they claimed a pitcher prospect who's a very intriguing pickup.

According to Chris McCosky of The Detroit News, the Tigers have claimed Yoniel Curet from the Philadelphia Phillies, adding the young reliever to their 40-man roster.

Tigers claim ex-Phillies, Rays 23-year-old Yoniel Curet​

"The Tigers today claimed RHP Yoniel Curet off waivers from the Philadelphia Phillies," McCosky reports. "Curet has been optioned to the FCL. To make room on the 40-man roster, OF Parker Meadows has been transferred to the 60-day injured list."

The Tigers adding Curet is a fascinating pickup. While he didn't stick with the Phillies for long, he's a young reliever at just 23 years old who could be an intriguing depth bullpen option down the road.

This past December, Curet was acquired by the Phillies in a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays. He didn't spend much time with the Phillies, being designated for assignment on April eighth.

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Last year in the minor leagues, Curet recorded a 3.90 ERA in 16 games (14 starts) with 62 strikeouts in 55.1 innings of work.

In his minor league career, which has spanned 97 games and five years, he's posted a 3.10 ERA with 486 strikeouts and a 1.25 WHIP across 371.1 innings pitched.

This is a high upside, low floor acquisition for the Tigers. he might not make the Major Leagues, but this kind of claim could turn into a very intriguing bullpen piece this season at some point.

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