Alex Lange Injury News & Updates
Keep up with the latest injuries from the Royals vs Rangers game on Feb 20, 2026 with our Major League Baseball injury report.Oct 1, 2023
Secures save in season finale
Lange allowed one hit in a scoreless ninth inning to secure the save in Sunday's 5-2 win over the Guardians. He struck out two.
ANALYSIS
Lange finished his 2023 campaign on a high note, recording his 26th save in 32 chances to go with a 3.68 ERA. The righty endured some rough patches in his first season as Detroit's closer, particularly when his command eluded him, though he exhibited dominant stuff with 79 strikeouts across 66 innings. Lange also looked sharper down the stretch, posting a 2.70 ERA with 14 strikeouts across 13.1 innings in September and October. For the moment, he looks like the favorite to close out games for the Tigers again in 2024.
Sep 24, 2023
Earns four-out save
Lange allowed a hit in 1.1 scoreless innings Sunday. He struck out two and picked up a save over the Athletics.
ANALYSIS
Lange allowed a leadoff double to Shea Langeliers in the ninth inning but needed just 16 pitches to record four outs and close out the 2-0 win. Lange blew two of his previous three save chances entering Sunday's game. He now has 25 in 31 opportunities alongside a 3.84 ERA and a 76:44 K:BB this season.
Sep 20, 2023
Falters again Tuesday
Lange (7-5) took the loss and a blown save in Tuesday's 3-2 loss to the Dodgers, allowing one run on three hits, a walk and a hit batsman over one inning.
ANALYSIS
Lange entered in the eighth inning and allowed a runner inherited from Jason Foley to score the tying run. In the ninth, Lange gave up a walk-off single to Max Muncy to complete the collapse. Lange has blown saves in two of his last three appearances. He's now at a 3.92 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 74:44 K:BB through 62 innings this season while going 24-for-30 in save chances.
Sep 17, 2023
Bounces back for 24th save
Lange struck out one in a perfect inning to earn the save in Sunday's 5-3 win over the Angels.
ANALYSIS
Lange melted down Saturday, allowing three runs in one inning, but ended up with the win in that appearance. He was back to a sharper level of performance Sunday, needing 12 pitches (nine strikes) to retire the bottom of the Angels' lineup in order for the save, his 24th in 29 chances this season. Lange is at a 3.84 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 74:43 K:BB through 61 innings while continuing to hold an edge over Jason Foley for the closer role.
Sep 17, 2023
Blows save, backs into win
Lange (7-4) allowed three runs on three hits and struck out two over one inning, taking a blown save but earning the extra-inning win over the Angels on Saturday.
ANALYSIS
Lange served up a two-run home run to Jared Walsh and a solo shot to Brett Phillips, squandering a three-run lead in the ninth inning. The Tigers pulled ahead again in the 10th, and Lange ended up with the win when Will Vest closed out the contest. Lange has surrendered multiple runs just twice in 24 appearances in the second half, giving up 11 runs (nine earned) over 23.1 innings in that span. He's posted a 3.90 ERA, 1.35 WHIP and 73:43 K:BB while going 23-for-28 in save chances and adding five holds over 60 innings this season.
Sep 10, 2023
Records another save Sunday
Lange pitched a clean ninth inning with two strikeouts to record the save in Sunday's 3-2 win over the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
For the second day in a row, Lange shut down Chicago in short order to record a save. The righty now has 23 saves this season, with four of them coming this month. Lange hit a rough patch when he struggled with control earlier this year, but he has seemingly righted the ship, and he could be poised for a strong finish to the season given his recent form.
Sep 10, 2023
Secures 22nd save Saturday
Lange tossed 1.1 scoreless innings to earn the save in Saturday's 3-1 win over the White Sox. He struck out two.
ANALYSIS
Lange has had a few hiccups here and there this season, though he now has 22 saves in 26 chances, to go along with a decent 3.63 ERA. The righty has only been scored upon once in his last 12 appearances, and he has a 2.25 ERA during the stretch. Lange should remain locked in as Detroit's closer during the final weeks of the year.
Sep 4, 2023
Earns 21st save
Lange worked around a hit and a walk to record a scoreless inning and earn the save in Sunday's 3-2 win over the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Lange allowed a leadoff single and a one-out walk, but a double play grounder got him out of trouble. The righty has been shaky at times this season, though he's been Detroit's preferred ninth-inning option, and he now has 21 saves in 25 chances. Walks have plagued Lange, as he's recorded 42 of them in just 54.2 innings, but he's been able to offset that to some degree with 66 strikeouts. He should remain the closer moving forward, at least if he can limit the free passes.
Sep 2, 2023
Notches 20th save
Lange allowed a hit in a scoreless inning against the White Sox on Friday. He struck out one batter and earned a save.
ANALYSIS
Lange worked around a leadoff single and needed just nine pitches to close out the 4-2 victory. It was a strong rebound after he coughed up three runs and blew a save against the Yankees on Thursday. He's now 20 for 24 in save chances while registering a 3.86 ERA across 53.2 frames.
Aug 31, 2023
Blows save Thursday
Lange blew a save opportunity against the Yankees on Thursday, allowing three runs on three hits while striking out one batter over one inning.
ANALYSIS
Coming into the ninth frame, New York had managed just two hits while falling behind by three runs. The Yankees were able to erase that deficit against Lange when Anthony Volpe blasted a two-out, three-run homer to right field. This was the first blown save in seven attempts since the All-Star break for Lange, who had been surviving with a 1.80 ERA over 15 second-half innings despite a 1.53 ERA and 17:18 K:BB. He and Jason Foley have been sharing closer duties, though Foley worked a perfect seventh and notched a hold in Thursday's contest.
Aug 26, 2023
Earns win Friday
Lange (6-3) worked around a walk to pitch a scoreless ninth inning and earn the win Friday against the Astros.
ANALYSIS
Lange worked the ninth in a 1-1 tie and managed to not let a walk hurt him. The righty then earned the win when Parker Meadows smashed a walkoff home run in the bottom half of the frame. After some control issues led to a rough patch earlier in the month, Lange has been better lately, tossing 5.2 scoreless innings over his last six appearances with only three walks. He also appears to have regained the ninth-inning role in Detroit, with two saves and a win in his last three outings.
Aug 22, 2023
Secures another save Tuesday
Lange worked around a hit to pitch a scoreless ninth inning and record the save in Monday's 8-6 win over the Cubs. He struck out one.
ANALYSIS
After command issues seemingly bumped him from the closer role recently, it appears that Lange may be back in the saddle, as he's now recorded the team's last two saves. That gives the righty 19 saves for the season in 22 chances. Jason Foley worked the eighth inning Monday, but he could still some opportunities. However, Lange has the more overpowering stuff, and it seems like the Tigers want to see him stick in the role as long as he's throwing strikes.
Aug 20, 2023
Earns 18th Save
Lange pitched a clean ninth to pick up the save in Sunday's 4-1 victory over the Guardians.
ANALYSIS
Entering with a three-run cushion, Lange needed just 12 pitches to finish off the Guardians for his 18th save. This was the sixth consecutive appearance for Lange in which he didn't allow a hit, but more notable is that he also didn't allow a free pass after having walked 11 batters in his previous five innings. He now holds a 3.70 ERA to go along with a 1.36 WHIP and 62 strikeouts in 48.2 innings.
Aug 19, 2023
Skipped again in save chance
Lange was not used in a save opportunity Friday against the Guardians and seems to have ceded the job to Jason Foley.
ANALYSIS
Foley allowed a run but still managed to convert the save in a 4-2 win over Cleveland in the first game of Friday's doubleheader. He's recorded Detroit's last two saves, and it seems like that's pushed Lange out of the closer role for now. The latter's demotion is warranted, as Lange has struggled with control this month, walking 10 batters in just 4.1 innings. If Lange can limit the free passes moving forward, it's possible he reemerges as the team's closer.
Aug 13, 2023
Bypassed in save opportunity
Lange was not used in a save opportunity during Saturday's win over the Red Sox, with the save instead going to Jason Foley.
ANALYSIS
The Tigers led 6-1 in the eighth inning, but when that dropped to 6-2 and Boston put two runners on, Detroit turned to Jason Foley to record five outs. Lange hasn't pitched since Monday and his last save came back on July 23. Since then, the righty has walked 10 batters in just 4.1 innings, and those control issues could be costing him his grip on the closer role.
Aug 7, 2023
Struggles continue Monday
Lange allowed one run on three walks and a hit batter across an inning of work in Monday's 9-3 loss to the Twins.
ANALYSIS
After getting pulled from a save opportunity Saturday due to walking three batters, Lange struggled with his command again Monday. He's actually walked three batters in his last three games, bringing the righty to 37 free passes this year in just 45 innings. Lange has good stuff, but the Tigers may need to go in a different direction in the closer role at some point.
Aug 6, 2023
Can't complete save
Lange recorded two outs but also walked three batters and was pulled from a save opportunity in Saturday's 4-2 win over the Rays.
ANALYSIS
Lange was called on for the top of the ninth inning but couldn't complete the frame, as he needed 20 pitches to retire two batters before he was replaced by Beau Brieske. When Lange struggles, it's often the free passes that catch up with him, and he now has a whopping 34 walks in 44 innings this season. He should still have some job security as Detroit's closer, but the team may decide to go in a different direction if Lange can't limit the walks moving forward.
Jul 30, 2023
Continues solid play
Lange tossed a scoreless inning of relief in Saturday's 5-0 win over the Marlins. He struck out one.
ANALYSIS
It wasn't a save situation, but the Tigers still used Lange, who hadn't pitched since Tuesday. The righty has now logged five straight appearances without allowing an earned run. He had allowed five earned runs over his five prior games, so this recent stretch is a step in the right direction. Lange should remain locked in as Detroit's closer, especially if he can keep up his recent level of performance.
Jul 25, 2023
Suffers third loss
Lange (5-3) allowed an unearned run to take the loss in Tuesday's extra-inning contest with the Angels. He gave up a hit and a walk, while also striking out one.
ANALYSIS
Lange worked the 10th inning of a 6-6 game and allowed his inherited runner to score on a one-out Mickey Moniak double. The righty also walked Hunter Renfroe and uncorked a wild pitch, so it wasn't his sharpest outing even if he didn't allow any earned runs. Lange continues to mow batters down, as he now has 53 strikeouts in 41.2 innings, though he's also walked 28. He'll need to exhibit better control if he wants to avoid rough outings moving forward.
Jul 23, 2023
Grabs 17th save
Lange picked up the save in Sunday's 3-1 victory over San Diego, tallying a walk and a strikeout in a scoreless ninth inning.
ANALYSIS
After retiring the first two batters in the ninth, Lange walked Xander Bogaerts before Jake Cronenworth reached on an error, putting runners on second and third. However, Lange would induce a flyout from Gary Sanchez to strand the tying runs aboard and earn his 17th save. The 27-year-old Lange appears to have settled in after a rocky June -- he's delivered three consecutive scoreless appearances while notching four straight saves. His ERA is down to 3.98 with a 1.28 WHIP and 52:27 K:BB across 40.2 innings this season.
Jul 19, 2023
Notches another save
Lange worked around a hit and a walk to pitch a scoreless ninth inning and record the save in Wednesday's 3-2 win over the Royals. He struck out one.
ANALYSIS
Lange was better in his last outing Monday, when he retired the side on 10 pitches, but he was still able to record his 16th save of the year Wednesday in 19 chances. The righty entered the contest with an 8.80 ERA since the beginning of June, though he's now strung together consecutive scoreless appearances, which could be a sign that he's beginning to turn things around.
Jul 17, 2023
Secures another save
Lange pitched a clean ninth inning with two strikeouts to record the save in Monday's 3-2 win over the Royals.
ANALYSIS
Lange needed just 10 pitches to retire Kansas City in order, giving him his 15th save of the season in 18 chances and second in the last three days. The righty has had some hiccups lately after starting the season very strongly, though he doesn't seem to be in danger of losing his grip on the closer job. Lange now has 50 strikeouts in 38.2 innings this year, pointing to his ability to dominate hitters, even if he hasn't been able to do so consistently.
Jul 15, 2023
Picks up 14th save
Lange picked up the save Friday against the Mariners. He allowed one run on one hit and two walks over one inning. He had one strikeout.
ANALYSIS
Lange bounced back after blowing a save in his last appearance on July 9. The right-hander still has work to do to earn the full trust of fantasy managers, however, as he's posted a 5.40 ERA so far this month. Coming off of a rough month of June (11.57 ERA), it might be risky to trust Lange in lineups until he strings together some scoreless appearances.
Jul 9, 2023
Blows save Sunday
Lange allowed two runs on a hit and a walk over an inning of work to blow the save in Sunday's extra-inning loss to the Blue Jays. He struck out two.
ANALYSIS
Lange's up-and-down season continued, as he blew his third save opportunity in 16 chances. The righty was lights out through the end of May with a 1.16 ERA but he has a 9.45 ERA since then, pushing his season mark to 4.17. Lange figures to stick as Detroit's closer due to the team's lack of other options, but he's been a shaky fantasy contributor recently.
Jul 9, 2023
Combines for no-hitter with save
Lange picked up the save Saturday against the Blue Jays, striking out one over one scoreless inning.
ANALYSIS
Lange entered the game in the ninth inning with a no-hit bid still intact for Detroit and went 1-2-3 through the top of Toronto's lineup. He whiffed the current hits leader in the American League, Bo Bichette on three straight curveballs before forcing a flyout and a groundout in the next two at-bats and securing perhaps the biggest save of his career. Lange has now converted his last three save attempts and didn't issue a walk Saturday for the first time in his last five appearances.
Jul 2, 2023
Grabs extra-inning win
Lange (5-2) allowed an unearned run on a hit and a walk while striking out two over two innings to earn the extra-inning win Saturday over the Rockies.
ANALYSIS
Lange kept the game tied in the ninth inning, then protected a three-run lead in the 10th. This was the fifth time in 35 appearances he's been asked to pitch more than an inning, and the second time he's completed two frames. The right-hander is now at a 3.89 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and 44:22 K:BB through 34.2 innings. He's also collected 12 saves, two holds and two blown saves as the Tigers' primary closer.
Jun 24, 2023
Converts four-out save
Lange walked one and struck out four over 1.1 scoreless and hitless innings to earn the save in Saturday's 3-2 win over the Twins.
ANALYSIS
Lange's had some uneven results in June, but he was at his best Saturday. The right-hander has surrendered three runs over his last five appearances, all of which came in a sloppy outing versus the Twins on June 18. Lange's now at a 3.82 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 42:17 K:BB while converting 12 of 14 save chances over 30.2 innings this season. He permits too many baserunners to be a dominant closer, but he's held his own fairly well in 2023.
Jun 19, 2023
Shuts door for 11th save
Lange pitched a scoreless inning of relief to earn the save in Monday's 6-4 win over the Royals. He did not allow any hits or walks.
ANALYSIS
Despite having 38 strikeouts this year in just 29.1 innings, Lange did not record any Monday, though he still managed to retire the side in order on 12 pitches. The righty is now 11-for-13 in save opportunities this season with a 3.99 ERA overall. He's struggled some lately, though, allowing two or more runs three times in just eight appearances this month. However, Lange should stick in the closer role for a Detroit team that doesn't have many other established end-game options.
Jun 12, 2023
Picks up fourth win
Lange (4-2) tossed a scoreless 10th inning and earned a win over Atlanta on Monday.
ANALYSIS
Lange needed just four pitches to work a clean inning and earned the win after Detroit walked off in the 10th. He was crushed with seven runs over his previous three outings but clearly the Tigers still trust him in a late-inning role. He's sporting a 3.29 ERA and 37:14 K:BB through 28 appearances.
Jun 8, 2023
Struggles again Thursday
Lange (3-2) allowed two runs on three hits and a walk while retiring just two batters to blow the save and take the loss Thursday against the Phillies.
ANALYSIS
Lange allowed four earned runs while retiring just a single batter in his last outing Sunday, and he struggled again Thursday, blowing his second save of the year in 12 chances. Before this rough two-game stretch, he had a dominant 1.11 ERA, but that has jumped to 3.20. Lange should still have some wiggle room as the team's closer, but continued poor play could lead to Jason Foley or Jose Cisnero potentially seeing some save opportunities.
Jun 4, 2023
Falls apart in non-save situation
Lange (3-1) allowed four runs on two hits and two walks with one strikeout in one-third of an inning, taking the loss Sunday versus the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Lange had allowed just three runs all season entering Sunday, but that changed in a sloppy outing that culminated in Jake Burger's walk-off grand slam. While the end result is an ugly one, Lange has still pitched well enough to earn the benefit of the doubt. He's now at a 2.55 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and 35:13 K:BB with 10 saves in 11 chances over 24.2 innings this season. Lange's 4.7 BB/9 makes outings like Sunday's a potential pitfall, but he's shown a solid ability to pitch around traffic so far.
May 31, 2023
Records 10th save
Lange pitched a scoreless ninth inning to record the save in Wednesday's 3-2 win over the Rangers. He walked one and struck out two.
ANALYSIS
Lange continues to roll along, as he now has 10 saves in 11 chances along with a sparkling 1.16 ERA. The righty has also struck out 32 batters in 23.1 innings. With this strong start to the season, Lange has firmly established himself as Detroit's closer, and he's been one of the better relief options in the entire league to this point.
May 28, 2023
Earns win Sunday
Lange (3-0) pitched a scoreless inning of relief to earn the win in Sunday's 10-inning contest against the White Sox. He struck out two.
ANALYSIS
Lange pitched the top of the 10th inning in a 5-5 tie and made quick work of Chicago on 12 pitches. He then earned the win when the Tigers plated one in the bottom half of the inning. Lange has been excellent this season, as he's now sitting on a 1.21 ERA and has struck out 30 batters in just 22.1 innings. The righty also leads the team with nine saves. If Detroit can continue to hover around .500, Lange should see plenty of opportunities moving forward.
May 24, 2023
Allows run but picks up save
Lange allowed a run on one hit but managed to earn the save in Wednesday's 6-4 win over the Royals. He struck out one.
ANALYSIS
Lange allowed his first run since early April, a streak of 16 consecutive appearances, but he was still able to shut the door for his ninth save in 10 chances. The righty has firmly established himself as Detroit's closer, and he has a sparkling 1.27 ERA and 28 strikeouts across 21.1 innings so far this year.
May 22, 2023
Earns second win
Lange (2-0) tossed two scoreless innings of relief to earn the win Monday against the Royals. He walked one and struck out two.
ANALYSIS
Lange worked the eighth and ninth innings, then earned the win when the Tigers pulled away for an 8-5 victory in the 10th. The righty has been dominant this season with a 0.89 ERA, 0.93 WHIP and 27 strikeouts across 20.1 innings. Lange also has eight saves in nine chances, as he's established himself as the clear top reliever in Detroit.
May 20, 2023
Notches eighth save
Lange struck out two in 1.1 perfect innings to record his eighth save of the season in Friday's 8-6 win over the Nationals.
ANALYSIS
The right-hander needed only 13 pitches (nine strikes) to shut down the bottom of Washington's order. It's been over a month since Lange allowed a run as he's reeled off 15 straight scoreless appearances, and the 27-year-old sports a 0.98 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 34.7 percent strikeout rate through 18.1 innings on the season. While little has gone right for the Tigers this season, they do seem to have found an elite high-leverage arm in Lange.
May 14, 2023
Nails down seventh save
Lange worked around two walks to pitch a scoreless inning and earn the save in Sunday's win over the Mariners. He struck out two.
ANALYSIS
Lange is now 7-for-8 in save opportunities this season and has his ERA down to a sparkling 1.06. The righty has done it by missing plenty of bats, as he now has 23 strikeouts across 17 innings. Lange had 82 strikeouts in 63.1 innings last year, so it doesn't look like a fluke. With Gregory Soto now in Philadelphia, Lange is locked in as the team's most trusted end-game option, and he has the stuff to put up good numbers the rest of the way.
May 6, 2023
Earns sixth save
Lange allowed a hit and struck out three in one inning to earn the save in Friday's 5-4 win over the Cardinals.
ANALYSIS
Lange issued a leadoff double to Paul Goldschmidt, then struck out Willson Contreras, Nolan Arenado and Dylan Carlson in order. After a shaky start to the season, Lange has strung together 12 scoreless innings. He's up to six saves and a hold while posting a 1.15 ERA, 0.96 WHIP and 21:6 K:BB across 15.2 innings overall.
May 4, 2023
Fans two in fifth save
Lange picked up the save in Thursday's 2-0 victory over the Mets. He allowed one hit while striking out two over one scoreless inning.
ANALYSIS
Lange turned in another scoreless outing, marking his 11th consecutive appearance without giving up a run while nabbing his fifth save of the campaign. He has bounced back from a poor start to the season, striking out at least one batter in every appearance since April 9 after failing to record a punchout in his first 3.2 innings. Though Lange has shown the ability to be a trustworthy closing option, save opportunities will likely come at a premium considering the Tigers are 13-17 and tout one of the least talented MLB rosters.
May 4, 2023
Notches fourth save
Lange walked one and struck out one in a scoreless ninth inning to record his fourth save of the season in the first game of Wednesday's doubleheader sweep of the Mets.
ANALYSIS
The Tigers didn't need Lange's services in the nightcap, winning 8-1, but he got the call in the matinee after Detroit rallied in the bottom of the eighth to take a 6-5 lead. Lange has converted four straight save chances after blowing his first opportunity of the year, and a 10-appearance scoreless streak has left him with a stellar 1.32 ERA and 0.95 WHIP through 13.2 innings. His 29.6 percent strikeout rate is still a touch below his 2022 mark, but the 27-year-old is tightening his grip on the closer job in Motown.
Apr 30, 2023
Nails down third save
Lange recorded his third save of the season in the first game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Orioles, giving up two hits and striking out two in a scoreless ninth inning.
ANALYSIS
The right-hander made things interesting as he needed 23 pitches (15 strikes) to protect a 7-4 lead, but Lange eventually struck out Ryan Mountcastle to end the matinee. Lange hasn't been tagged with a run in eight straight appearances, posting a 13:2 K:BB through 8.1 innings over that stretch, and while Jason Foley has also been effective in a high-leverage role for Detroit, Lange appears to be tightening his hold on the closer job.
Apr 24, 2023
Secures second save
Lange struck out two batters in a perfect inning and earned a save over Milwaukee on Monday.
ANALYSIS
Lange tossed nine of 14 pitches for strikes in the dominant outing, including four whiffs. He's turned in seven straight scoreless appearances, posting an 11:2 K:BB during that stretch. He lowered his season ERA to 1.64 and has converted his last two save opportunities after blowing his first chance April 3.
Apr 18, 2023
Notches win in matinee
Lange (1-0) picked up the win in the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Guardians, giving up one hit and striking out one in a scoreless ninth inning.
ANALYSIS
With the score tied 3-3, Lange came in to face the bottom of the Cleveland order and worked around a two-out double by Tyler Freeman. The right-hander then got rewarded for his efforts when Kerry Carpenter launched a walkoff homer in the bottom of the frame -- the third straight game the Tigers won in walkoff fashion, tying a club record. Lange hasn't had many save opportunities so far, but he's been effective if not exactly dominant when called upon, posting a 2.35 ERA and 5:4 K:BB through 7.2 innings.
Apr 13, 2023
Records first save
Lange tossed a scoreless ninth inning to earn the save in Thursday's 3-1 win over the Blue Jays. He struck out one.
ANALYSIS
Lange blew his only other save opportunity so far this season back on April 3, but he had more success Thursday and lowered his ERA to 3.18. With the Tigers sitting at 3-9, it's not surprising that they haven't presented many save chances. Lange should remain the team's closer, though his fantasy appeal takes a hit due to the team context.
Apr 3, 2023
Blows first save chance
Lange allowed a run on two hits and a walk in one inning during Monday's win over Houston. He was charged with a blown save.
ANALYSIS
Entering the game with a 5-4 lead, Lange coughed up an RBI double to Jose Abreu to force extra innings. It was Lange's first save opportunity of the year. He primarily relied on his curveball, which forced four whiffs on nine swings.
Mar 23, 2023
Still struggling with control
Lange, who walked a batter in a scoreless inning during Thursday's Grapefruit League game against the Phillies, now has eight free passes in six innings this spring.
ANALYSIS
Lange has also struck out eight and has limited batters to a .190 average in Grapefruit League action, so he's been pretty good when he's throwing strikes. The righty has had a BB/9 of 4.0 or higher in each of his two MLB seasons, and if that continues this year, he'll be a volatile fantasy asset. However, Lange appears to be Detroit's most likely option to begin the season as the closer, so there should be fantasy value here as long as he's converting saves.
Mar 15, 2023
Could be most likely closer option
Lange is the most likely candidate to receive the first shot to close for the Tigers, Cody Stavengagen of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
While he doesn't expect manager A.J. Hinch to anoint a closer anytime soon, Stavenhagen believes Lange is best suited for the role due to his stuff and demeanor. It tracks with what the common perception has been regarding the Tigers' bullpen situation following the trades of Gregory Soto and Joe Jimenez. Lange's control can evade him at times -- and it has this spring with a 5:6 K:BB over four innings -- but he has swing-and-miss stuff and no platoon split. Hinch might not settle on one guy, but Lange does seem to be the best guy for fantasy managers to target.
Jan 7, 2023
Path to saves appears
Lange could have a path to the closer role in Detroit, as Jon Morosi of MLB Network reports that Gregory Soto was traded to the Phillies on Saturday.
ANALYSIS
Lange has just one career save, and the Tigers have yet to announce their plans for the ninth inning, but the righty appears to be the logical choice with Soto, Joe Jimenez and Andrew Chafin all leaving this winter. Will Vest is the only Tiger remaining on the roster who saved any games last season, but his 4.00 ERA hardly turns heads. Lange managed a 3.41 ERA in his first full season and struck out 30.3 percent of opposing batters.
Oct 2, 2022
Secures win in relief
Lange (7-4) pitched a scoreless inning of relief and earned the win Sunday against the Twins. He struck out two.
ANALYSIS
Lange has worked in a middle relief role all season with no saves, though he's had some fantasy value with the seven wins, which are actually tied for the most on the team. Reliever wins are volatile, however, so it's unclear if Lange will maintain as much fantasy appeal in 2023 if he's still setting up Gregory Soto in the Detroit bullpen.
Aug 13, 2022
Takes loss Friday
Lange (4-3) allowed two runs on three hits and a walk across an inning of relief to take the loss Friday against the White Sox. He struck out one.
ANALYSIS
Daniel Norris and Jason Foley kept Chicago off the board for six innings, but Lange struggled in the seventh. It's the second time this month he's allowed two or more runs in an appearance, and his 9.00 ERA in August reflects those struggles. Lange has been better over the full season, however, with a 3.40 ERA and 60 strikeouts across 45 innings. Those 45 innings are a new career high, so it's possible his recent downward trend is at least partly due to fatigue.
Aug 1, 2022
Takes second loss
Lange (4-2) allowed three runs (two earned) on two hits while retiring just two batters to take the loss and a blown save Monday against the Twins.
ANALYSIS
Lange was tasked with the bottom of the 10th inning with the Tigers up 3-2, but the righty struggled. A Jose Miranda single with one out brought home the runner who started the frame on second. Then, two batters later, Gio Urshela ended the game with a walk-off, two-run home run. Lange has mostly pitched well, though Minnesota has touched him up for four earned runs in two appearances this past week. The 26-year-old still carries a solid 3.10 ERA despite the hiccup and should remain one of Detroit's top relief options.
Jun 2, 2022
Picks up win Thursday
Lange (3-1) pitched a scoreless inning of relief and earned the win Thursday against the Twins. He walked two and struck out one.
ANALYSIS
Lange was able to work around the two walks to tally his 10th scoreless appearance across his past 11 outings. The righty has been a bright spot for the 21-30 Tigers, as he now has a 1.74 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and 26 strikeouts across 20.2 innings this season. Gregory Soto has pitched also pitched well and seems decently secure in the closer role, but Lange should continue to see high-leverage work.
May 23, 2022
Gains traction in late innings
Lange struck out three and gave up no hits and one walk over 1.1 scoreless innings en route to claiming his fifth hold of the season Sunday in the Tigers' 4-2 win over the Guardians.
ANALYSIS
Three of Lange's holds have come in his last four appearances, as manager A.J. Hinch has elected to carve out a key late-inning role for the right-hander in light of his hot start to the season. Through 18 appearances spanning 15.2 innings, Lange has allowed three earned runs on seven hits and six walks while whiffing 19.
Mar 31, 2022
Should make bullpen
Lange seems likely to make the Tigers' Opening Day bullpen, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Lange made his MLB debut last season and pitched in 36 games for Detroit, recording a respectable 4.04 ERA to go with 39 strikeouts across 35.2 innings. The 26-year-old has minor-league options remaining, though it seems like he's secured his spot in the bullpen for now. Lange will probably work in front of the likes of Michael Fulmer and Gregory Soto, with the latter likely to gobble up most of the team's saves.
Oct 1, 2021
Earns win in relief
Lange (1-3) earned the win in relief Thursday against the Twins after tossing 1.1 scoreless innings, fanning two.
ANALYSIS
Lange tossed a second straight scoreless outing and enjoyed a strong September, tossing 10 scoreless appearances out of 12 trips to the mound and racking up one save, three holds and a 2.03 ERA with a 13:3 K:BB across 13.1 innings. He's made 35 appearances on the year and owns a 4.08 ERA in that span, but he's undoubtedly ending the campaign with excellent results over the last few weeks.
Sep 20, 2021
Excelling in setup role
Lange recorded a pair of holds during the Tigers' weekend series with the Rays, working 1.2 perfect innings between appearances Friday and Saturday.
ANALYSIS
Since his Aug. 22 call-up from Triple-A Toledo, Lange has seized a key setup role for Detroit. In his 12 appearances since his promotion, Lange has claimed three holds while turning in a 1.32 ERA, 1.02 WHIP and 14:6 K:BB. With Gregory Soto (finger) done for the season and Jose Cisnero (elbow) and Joe Jimenez (COVID-19) also on the injured list, Lange looks to be the next man up for saves behind newly minted closer Michael Fulmer.
Aug 22, 2021
Joins big club
The Tigers recalled Lange from Triple-A Toledo ahead of Sunday's game against the Blue Jays.
ANALYSIS
Lange will be back with the Tigers for the first time in just over a month after he was summoned from Triple-A as a replacement on the pitching staff for Wily Peralta (finger), who was placed on the 10-day injured list. According to Evan Woodbery of MLive.com, Lange will likely be available out of the Tigers' bullpen just for Sunday; he's a prime candidate for a demotion ahead of Tuesday's two-game set in St. Louis, where outfielder Akil Baddoo (concussion) will make his return from the IL.
Jul 21, 2021
Sent to Triple-A
Lange was optioned to Triple-A Toledo after Tuesday's win over the Rangers, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The 25-year-old delivered a scoreless frame Sunday after being promoted and will return to the minors to make room on the big-league roster for Wednesday's starter Matt Manning. Lange has a 6.88 ERA, 2.00 WHIP and 21:10 K:BB over 17 frames in the majors this season.
Jul 17, 2021
Returns to big leagues
The Tigers recalled Lange from Triple-A Toledo prior to Game 2 of Saturday's doubleheader against the Twins, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The Tigers may have a couple bullpen games while Jose Urena (groin) misses time, so Lange will be called upon for additional pitching depth. He's certainly struggled with Detroit this year, posting a 7.31 ERA in 16 innings of work. Lange's performance at Triple-A has been better, though, as he's pitched four scoreless innings with six strikeouts across his last three appearances.
Jul 7, 2021
Reinstated, optioned Wednesday
Lange (shoulder) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list Wednesday and optioned to Triple-A Toledo.
ANALYSIS
Lange landed on the IL in mid-June with a right shoulder strain. The right-hander pitched a scoreless inning during a rehab outing with Toledo on Tuesday, and he'll remain in Triple-A for the time being. Lange holds a 7.31 ERA through 16 major-league innings this season, but he remains a candidate to rejoin the Tigers' bullpen later this summer.
Jul 6, 2021
Starts rehab assignment
Lange (shoulder) reported to Triple-A Toledo to begin a rehab assignment Tuesday.
ANALYSIS
Lange landed on the injured list in mid-June with a strained right shoulder, but he's closing in on his return to the active roster. The 25-year-old should rejoin the Tigers after making a couple appearances with Toledo.
Jun 25, 2021
Bullpen session scheduled
Lange (shoulder) will throw a bullpen session Sunday, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports.
ANALYSIS
Lange has already spent the required 10 days on the injured list. He'll need a bit more time before he's ready to be activated, but his return doesn't appear to be too far off. He's expected to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Toledo early next week.
Jun 15, 2021
Placed on injured list
The Tigers placed Lange (shoulder) on the 10-day injured list Tuesday with a right shoulder strain.
ANALYSIS
Lange exited Monday's game after suffering the injury. The righty has been an oft-used, yet unreliable relief option for the Tigers, posting a 7.31 ERA and allowing five home runs in 16 innings this season.
Jun 15, 2021
Likely headed to IL
Lange will likely require a stint on the 10-day injured list after leaving Monday's game against Kansas City due to shoulder discomfort, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
The Tigers have yet to make the move official, but skipper A.J. Hinch stated after the game that there's a good chance Lange will need a trip to the injured list.
Jun 14, 2021
Nursing shoulder issue
Lange left Monday's game against the Royals due to right shoulder discomfort, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Lange will be considered day-to-day until further notice. He's appeared in three contests since being recalled Thursday, allowing three runs over 2.2 innings.
Jun 14, 2021
Exits due to injury
Lange left Monday's game against the Royals due to an undisclosed injury, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reports.
ANALYSIS
Lange was visited by the team trainer in the fifth inning and ultimately had to leave the contest. Details on the injury have yet to surface.
Jun 10, 2021
Called up to majors
The Tigers recalled Lange from Triple-A Toledo on Thursday.
ANALYSIS
Derek Holland (shoulder) was placed on the 10-day injured list in a corresponding move. With Detroit turning to Tyler Alexander to lead off a bullpen game in Thursday's series finale with the Mariners, Lange could get a chance to cover an inning or two in relief behind the lefty. Lange has previously made 15 appearances out of the Detroit bullpen this season, posting a 7.43 ERA, 1.73 WHIP and 16:4 K:BB in 13.1 innings.
May 16, 2021
Sent to Triple-A
Lange was optioned to Triple-A Toledo after Sunday's loss to the Cubs.
ANALYSIS
Lange delivered a scoreless inning Sunday but has mostly struggled with a 7.43 ERA this season. The 25-year-old will attempt to get back on track at Triple-A.
Apr 10, 2021
Recalled Saturday
Lange was recalled from the taxi squad prior to Saturday's game in Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
Julio Teheran landed on the injured list with a right shoulder strain, so Lange joins the bullpen in a corresponding move. It may be a short stay with the big club, as Lange could be sent to the alternate site whenever the Tigers promote Teheran's replacement in the rotation.
Mar 16, 2021
Sent to Triple-A
The Tigers optioned Lange to Triple-A Toledo on Tuesday.
ANALYSIS
Lange held opposing hitters to a .167 average and struck out three over 3.1 innings this spring, but it wasn't enough for him to remain in the competition for a spot in Detroit's Opening Day bullpen. The 25-year-old will be a candidate to make his MLB debut later in 2021.
Feb 15, 2021
Will compete for bullpen spot
Lange will be competing for a bullpen spot with the Tigers this spring, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Lange is one of several young Detroit arms who will be vying for one of the final bullpen spots. The 25-year-old, who came to the Tigers in the Nicholas Castellanos trade, has yet to appear above the Double-A level. He will likely begin the 2021 campaign with Triple-A Toledo and could get a shot in the majors at some point during the season.
Nov 20, 2020
Added to 40-man roster
Lange was added to the Tigers' 40-man roster Friday.
ANALYSIS
The move protects Lange from the Rule 5 draft. The 25-year-old righty was a member of the Tigers' player pool this season but did not get the chance to make his big-league debut. In 54.2 innings at the Double-A level in 2019, Lange recorded a 3.79 ERA, though that came with an unimpressive combination of an 18.8 percent strikeout rate and an 11.8 percent walk rate.