Tigers restock bullpen by adding Joe Nathan

Joe Nathan expects to fit in just fine in Detroit - and now the Tigers don’t have to face the closer who has dominated them more than perhaps any other in baseball.

Nathan agreed with Detroit on a two-year contract with a club option for 2016, enabling the Tigers to accomplish one of their main objectives this offseason by adding one of the game’s most accomplished closers to the bullpen.

The three-time defending AL Central champions announced the deal Wednesday, two days after trading right-handed starter Doug Fister to Washington.

“Why would I come here?” Nathan asked rhetorically. “I think the question is, why wouldn’t I? This team is ready to win. They’re ready to win now. .?.?. It’s not just about getting to the postseason. For me, it’s about getting to the big one.”

Terms were not disclosed. Nathan, who turned 39 last month, has never pitched in the World Series. He had 43 saves in 46 chances for the Texas Rangers last season.

Detroit’s bullpen was unsettled for much of last season. Joaquin Benoit eventually performed well as the closer, but he is now a free agent.

AP