Right-hander Bobby Parnell, whose run with the Mets was derailed by Tommy John elbow surgery in 2014, has signed a minor-league contract with the Tigers that includes an invitation to spring training.
Parnell struggled to come back from surgery last year, posting a 6.38 ERA in 24 innings before opting to go on the disabled list rather than being released. However, before blowing out his elbow Parnell was a very good late-inning reliever and occasional closer with a 2.79 ERA and 202 strikeouts in 212 innings from 2010-2013.
Regaining his lost velocity will be key for Parnell, who reached the upper-90s with his fastball before the surgery. Detroit is always in need of bullpen help and the 31-year-old could emerge as an interesting low-cost flier.
