MLB News: Joba Chamberlain Signs One-Year Deal With Tigers

With a new front office and the same deep pockets since Guggenheim took over, the Los Angeles Dodgers have been linked to almost every significant free agent this winter.

Though they didn’t sign any of the big names that were on the market, the Dodgers made a few signings and some trades to recast the roster. Recently, they had a small need come up with closer Kenley Jansen having surgery and were linked to the few capable relievers yet to be signed. One of those names was right-hander Joba Chamberlain, who has never been a closer but has experience in the bullpen.

The Detroit Tigers announced via their Twitter account on Tuesday that they had reached an agreement to bring back the 29-year-old:

The #Tigers have agreed to terms on a one-year contract with RHP @Joba_44.

— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) February 24, 2015

Chamberlain spent last season in Detroit after having spent his previous seven years with the New York Yankees. Due to injuries, last year was his first full season since 2010 and he finished with 69 appearances. Chamberlain finished with a 3.57 ERA and 59 strikeouts in 63 innings. He will likely return to the same role with the Tigers.

Meanwhile, the Dodgers didn’t make a splash signing for a reliever and decided to replace from within, although they did sign right-hander Dustin McGowan to a one-year deal. Manager Don Mattingly said there is no pecking order yet in the bullpen and the spring will determine who will be pitching the later innings for the Dodgers.

There are still a few capable relievers on the market, but don’t expect the Dodgers to jump too high for any of them.