Tyler Alexander
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2021Neon2110030034.23820103045.19
2022Neon191340570102.07537258173.26
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 21 2025Alexander (4-7) was the pitcher of record in Friday's 7-1 win over the Blue Jays after striking out two batters while giving up four hits and no walks in four innings of relief. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Davis Martin had initially been scheduled to start Friday, but he was instead placed on the injured list prior to the game due to a right forearm strain. As a result, the White Sox had right-hander Grant Taylor step in for a spot start, though he covered just one inning before turning the game over to Alexander. The veteran lefty delivered a quality performance in the extended relief outing, retiring 12 of the 14 batters he faced on 49 pitches. The White Sox will have an opening in the rotation the next time Martin's turn comes up Wednesday versus the Diamondbacks, and Alexander might have performed well enough Friday to serve as a starter or primary pitcher in that outing over Mike Vasil, who was roughed up for six runs in 3.2 innings against the Cardinals on Thursday.
Jun 8 2025The White Sox signed Alexander to a one-year, $760,000 contract Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was DFA'd by Milwaukee last Sunday and elected free agency after clearing waivers. He struggled during his tenure with the Brewers, posting a 6.19 ERA, 1.49 WHIP and 30:12 K:BB over 36.1 innings while picking up a hold, a save and a 3-5 record. Alexander can serve in a swingman role, as he made four starts earlier this season, including a start against Cincinnati on April 4 during which he tossed 5.2 hitless innings. In corresponding roster moves Sunday, Jared Shuster landed on the 15-day IL due to a blister, and Fraser Ellard was transferred to the 60-day injured list.
Jun 6 2025Alexander cleared waivers and elected free agency Friday, Jack Stern of BrewerFanatic.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Brewers designated Alexander for assignment Sunday, and the veteran will look to continue his MLB career elsewhere. The 30-year-old appeared in 21 games for the Brewers, logging a 6.19 ERA over 36.1 innings. He hasn't posted an ERA under 4.50 since 2021.
Jun 1 2025The Brewers designated Alexander for assignment Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander worked mop-up duty in Saturday's blowout win against the Phillies, and he'll lose his place on the 40-man roster after giving up five runs across one inning. Alexander had some strong performances as a spot starter early in the season and posted a 2.84 ERA in his first four outings, but the 30-year-old has surrendered 21 earned runs over his past 23.2 innings, prompting the Brewers to move on.
May 2 2025Alexander (1-3) allowed two runs on three hits and struck out one over two-thirds of an inning, taking the loss Friday versus the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Brewers looked to shield Quinn Priester a bit in this contest, but Alexander's poor performance in the first inning ruined that plan. Alexander has allowed six runs over his last 7.2 innings across five relief appearances, which includes one scoreless three-inning effort that earned him a save. The southpaw looks to be a swingman at this point of the season, but he's pitched to an ugly 5.18 ERA, 1.40 WHIP and 21:11 K:BB across 24.1 innings. He's typically a long reliever and has struggled in a variety of roles so far.
Apr 15 2025Manager Pat Murphy indicated Tuesday that Alexander will return to operating as a long reliever, Jack Stern of BrewerFanatic.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander pitched well in his first start of the season with 5.2 scoreless innings, but he was less effective in the past two outings and surrendered eight runs (four earned) Monday against the Tigers. Jose Quintana recently joined the rotation while Tobias Myers (oblique) is finishing up a rehab assignment, as Milwaukee's rotation is regaining some pieces. Prospect Logan Henderson was called up Tuesday and could take Alexander's spot in the rotation this weekend versus the A's.
Apr 14 2025Alexander (1-1) took the loss Monday against the Tigers after giving up eight runs (four earned) on six hits and three walks in four innings. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander threw just one clean inning Monday, but his throwing error in the fourth inning at least resulted in each of Detroit's four runs scored in the frame to go unearned in the box score. Although the error also prevented his ERA from ballooning to a much higher figure, Alexander still holds a 4.32 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and a troublesome 14:10 K:BB over 16.2 innings (three starts) to begin the season. A banged-up Brewers pitching staff should keep the left-hander in the rotation for at least one more turn, and Alexander is tentatively scheduled to take the mound against the Athletics this weekend.
Apr 9 2025Alexander didn't factor in the decision against Colorado on Wednesday, allowing two runs on six hits and two walks while striking out three batters over 3.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was handed a 5-0 lead through three frames, but he wasn't able to go deep enough to qualify for the victory. The southpaw didn't allow Colorado to catch up, though he yielded constant traffic on the basepaths -- the Rockies put multiple runners on base in each of the four frames in which Alexander pitched. After impressing with 5.2 scoreless innings his previous trip to the mound, this was a bit of a disappointing step back for Alexander, though it was far from a disastrous outing since Milwaukee ended up winning in a 17-2 rout. There's a good chance Alexander will stick in the rotation, at least in the short term, given that the Brewers have already been decimated by starting-pitcher injuries.
Apr 5 2025Alexander (1-0) collected the win Friday, walking three and striking out six over 5.2 scoreless, no-hit innings in a 3-2 victory over the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pressed into starting duty for Milwaukee's injury-ravaged pitching staff, Alexander baffled Cincinnati hitters over 83 pitches (50 strikes) as he fell just shy of recording his first quality start since May 17 of last season. The veteran lefty likely earned himself another turn or two through the rotation with this performance, but his reward for Friday's effort is that he lines up for a road outing at Coors Field next week. Through nine innings to begin the season, Alexander sports a 2.00 ERA and 9:5 K:BB.
Apr 4 2025Alexander will be the Brewers' starting pitcher in Friday's game against the Reds, Curt Hogg of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander's most recent of two relief appearances this season came Sunday, when he threw 47 pitches over 2.1 innings. While it won't be a traditional opener assignment, he will not be handling a full starter's workload Friday.
Apr 2 2025Alexander is likely to start Friday against the Reds, Adam McCalvy of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Brewers are holding off announcing a probable pitcher for the game, likely because Alexander may be needed in relief before then. However, Alexander threw a bullpen session Wednesday, which points to him taking the ball Friday if he's not needed in relief Wednesday against the Royals or Thursday against the Reds. Alexander has made two relief appearances this season, most recently throwing 2.1 innings and 47 pitches Sunday, so the lefty is unlikely to be able to handle a full starter's workload Friday.
Mar 28 2025Alexander tossed a scoreless inning in Thursday's 4-2 loss to the Yankees. He allowed one hit and struck out one batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander did not have to wait long to make his first appearance with the Brewers, and he kept the opponent at bay with Milwaukee trailing 4-1 heading into the bottom of the eighth inning. Alexander figures to primarily serve as a long reliever, but he did extend up to 70 pitches during spring training and could be a candidate for a spot start, as the Brewers opened the season with only three true traditional starting pitchers on the 26-man roster.
Feb 12 2025The Brewers signed Alexander to a one-year contract Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was non-tendered by the Rays earlier this offseason but has managed to land on his feet with a major-league deal in Milwaukee. The left-hander split time between the rotation and bullpen last season with Tampa Bay, finishing with a 5.10 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 90:24 K:BB across 107.2 innings. The Brewers will have a vacancy in their rotation if Brandon Woodruff (shoulder) isn't ready to start the season, but it seems likelier that Alexander will wind up in the bullpen or perhaps a swingman role.
Nov 22 2024Alexander was non-tendered by the Rays on Friday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander served as both a traditional starter and multi-inning reliever for the Rays in 2024, posting a 5.10 ERA and 1.24 WHIP across 107.2 frames. He should be able to find a bullpen role elsewhere around the league, with the potential to also be a spot starter.
Sep 26 2024Alexander didn't factor into the decision in Thursday's 4-3 loss to the Tigers. He allowed four hits and no walks while striking out six over five scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander has held opponents scoreless in his last two outings, allowing just six hits while recording 12 strikeouts over 9.1 innings in that span. The left-hander will finish the year at 6-5 with a 5.10 ERA, 1.24 WHIP and 90:24 K:BB across 107.2 innings while working as both a bulk reliever and traditional starter.
Sep 21 2024Alexander didn't factor into the decision Friday against Toronto, allowing two hits and a walk over 4.1 shutout innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was sharp Friday, holding Toronto to just two singles, though he'd fail to qualify for the win as the Rays turned to the bullpen in the fifth inning after Alexander hit 65 pitches. Still, it was an encouraging performance from the left-hander, who had allowed 20 earned runs and eight homers in his previous six outings (27.1 innings). Overall, Alexander is 6-5 with a 5.35 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and 84:24 K:BB over 102.2 innings this year. He's lined up to face the Tigers on the road next week in what will likely be his final start of the season.
Sep 19 2024Alexander will start Friday's game against the Blue Jays, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander has worked bulk innings for the entire season, though he's fluctuated between working behind an opener and as a traditional starter. Topkin reports there will be no opener Friday, setting Alexander up for his eighth start of the campaign.
Sep 14 2024Alexander (6-5) took the loss against the Guardians on Saturday, allowing four runs on four hits and two walks with two strikeouts over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander relieved Drew Rasmussen to open the third inning and was mainly burned by a three-run sixth frame. The 30-year-old didn't allow a homer for the first time since Aug. 4, but he has yielded three earned runs or more in four of his past five outings. On the season, he owns a 5.58 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 78:23 K:BB across 98.1 innings as both a starter and bulk reliever.
Sep 13 2024Alexander is expected to work in bulk relief behind opener Drew Rasmussen on Saturday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Many of Alexander's appearances have come as a bulk reliever this season, though it hasn't necessarily benefited his performance, as he owns a career-worst 5.50 ERA through 93.1 innings. He turned in a solid outing during his last appearance against the Phillies (one earned run over 4.1 IP), but he's too inconsistent to be considered a reliable streaming option.
Sep 9 2024Alexander is expected to work in bulk relief behind opening pitcher Cole Sulser in Monday's game against the Phillies, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander is taking over the rotation spot vacated by lefty Jeffrey Springs (elbow), who landed on the injured list Sunday. Over his 19 appearances (seven starts) with Tampa Bay this season, Alexander sports a 6-4 record with a 5.66 ERA, 1.35 WHIP and 75:21 K:BB across 89 innings. He's been especially vulnerable to the long ball, giving up a career-high 22 home runs.
Sep 8 2024The Rays recalled Alexander from Triple-A Durham on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander was optioned to Durham on Thursday but will quickly return to the big leagues with Jeffrey Springs (elbow) headed to the injured list. Alexander has a 5.66 ERA and 1.35 WHIP in 19 appearances (seven starts) for the Rays this season, and he could work as a starter or bulk reliever down the stretch in place of Springs.
Sep 5 2024The Rays optioned Alexander to Triple-A Durham on Thursday, Tricia Whitaker of Bally Sports Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander allowed four runs over 3.2 innings in bulk relief Wednesday, picking up a win over the Twins. He wasn't going to be available to pitch for a few days, so the Rays will replace him with a fresh arm.
Sep 4 2024Alexander is expected to serve as a bulk reliever behind opening pitcher Cole Sulser in Wednesday's game against the Twins, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Even with Zack Littell returning from the injured list to start Monday's series opener versus Minnesota, the Rays will at least temporarily expand the rotation to six men to include Alexander. Since being recalled from Triple-A Durham on Aug. 17, Alexander has made three appearances, tossing 14.1 innings and striking out 10 while allowing 11 earned runs on 15 hits and five walks.
Aug 28 2024Alexander (5-4) took the loss Wednesday as the Rays were downed 6-2 by the Mariners, coughing up five runs on five hits -- including three home runs -- and a walk over 4.1 innings of relief. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw was the third pitcher into the game for Tampa Bay, taking the mound with two outs in the fourth inning of a 1-1 tie, but Alexander quickly fell apart and served up homers to Victor Robles, Julio Rodriguez and Randy Arozarena in the fifth frame. Alexander has been taken deep six times in his last four outings and 19 innings, a stretch in which he's stumbled to a 5.68 ERA, 1.47 WHIP and 13:7 K:BB. It's not clear when Zack Littell (shoulder) will be ready to rejoin the rotation, but if Alexander gets another turn as a starter or bulk reliever, he would line up for an appearance at home early next week against the Twins.
Aug 23 2024Alexander allowed three runs on five hits and two walks while striking out one over 4.1 innings in a no-decision versus the Dodgers on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was steady early on, but he ran into trouble in the fifth inning. He exited the game after yielding a three-run home run to Enrique Hernandez. Alexander had served as a bulk reliever in his previous six outings over three different stints in the majors. He's now at a 5.22 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 69:20 K:BB over 81 innings across 17 appearances (seven starts) this year. The southpaw is lined up to make his next appearance at Seattle, but it hasn't been revealed if he'll start or work behind an opener if he gets another turn through the rotation.
Aug 18 2024Alexander did not factor into the decision Sunday, allowing three runs on five hits and two walks over 5.2 innings against the Diamondbacks. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander entered at the start of the third inning and pitched all the way into the eighth, allowing just one run prior to a two-run homer by Corbin Carroll. He then allowed a single to Lourdes Gurriel that ended his outing one out short of six full frames. Despite the two late runs allowed, Alexander was still in line for the win until the Diamondbacks touched up closer Pete Fairbanks for three in the ninth to send the game into extras. The 5.2 innings represented Alexander's longest outing since tossing 7.1 innings on May 17.
Aug 17 2024Alexander will serve as the Rays' bulk reliever Sunday against Arizona, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Tampa Bay recalled Alexander from Triple-A on Saturday in the wake of Zack Littell's (shoulder) move to the 15-day injured list. While Alexander won't officially start Sunday's contest, he'll be the Rays' primary pitcher after opener Drew Rasmussen. Alexander has allowed two runs across his last four big-league appearances, racking up 15 strikeouts across 14.1 innings.
Aug 16 2024The Rays will recall Alexander from Triple-A Durham on Saturday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander had been scheduled to start for Durham on Friday, but he was scratched and is now headed back to the big leagues, where he'll presumably work as a long reliever. A corresponding move will be announced once the 30-year-old's promotion is official.
Aug 11 2024The Rays optioned Alexander to Tripel-A Durham on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lefty pitched well in bulk relief in Saturday's loss to the Orioles with one run allowed over 4.2 innings and has a 1.26 ERA in his past four appearances, but he'll head to the minors with Ryan Pepiot (knee) nearing a return from the 15-day injured list to fill an opening in the rotation. Cole Sulser was called up from Triple-A in a corresponding move to bolster Tampa Bay's bullpen depth.
Aug 10 2024Alexander allowed one run on six hits and two walks while striking out three over 4.2 innings Saturday versus the Orioles. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander continues to operate in a bulk-relief role, and he's had success during his current stint in the majors. He's allowed two runs and posted a 15:3 K:BB over 14.1 innings over his last four appearances, and Saturday was the first time in that span he didn't come away with a win. Alexander has a 5.20 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 63:16 K:BB over 71 innings over 15 appearances (six starts) in the majors this year. If Ryan Pepiot (knee) returns to the majors next week, Alexander may be moved off the 26-man roster or feature as a traditional multi-inning reliever going forward.
Aug 4 2024Alexander (5-3) was the pitcher of record in Sunday's 1-0 win over the Astros, striking out five batters in 4.1 scoreless innings out of the bullpen while giving up two hits and one walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After piggybacking starter Jeffrey Springs in the lefty's 2024 debut with the Rays in Tuesday's 9-3 win over the Marlins, Alexander operated as more of a bulk reliever Sunday, with opening pitcher Hunter Bigge exiting the contest after retiring two of the five batters he faced. Alexander came on to strike out Jon Singleton to close out of the bottom of the first inning with the bases loaded, then cruised through the next four frames before departing with a 1-0 lead. Alexander should remain the Rays' de facto No. 5 starter until Ryan Pepiot (knee) is ready to return from the 15-day injured list.
Jul 27 2024Alexander is expected to serve as a bulk reliever for Sunday's game against the Reds, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander will follow opener Shawn Armstrong, who's slated to go one or two innings before giving way to Alexander. Alexander threw three innings in bulk relief Tuesday and owns a 5.88 ERA in 59.2 innings this season.
Jul 24 2024Alexander (3-3) picked up the win Tuesday, allowing three hits over three scoreless innings of relief in a 4-2 victory over the Blue Jays. He struck out four without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw entered the game in the third inning after Shawn Armstrong gave the Rays two scoreless innings as the opener, and Alexander kept the goose eggs coming to lower his ERA on the season to 5.88. It was his first appearance in the majors since May 30, but Alexander's latest stint as a bulk reliever figures to be a short one with both Jeffrey Springs (elbow) and Ryan Pepiot (knee) expected to rejoin the rotation in late July or early August. Alexander will likely get one more turn, however, and lines up for an outing at home against the Reds this weekend.
Jul 23 2024The Rays recalled Alexander from Triple-A Durham, and he's expected to serve as a bulk reliever Tuesday against the Blue Jays, Ryan Bass of Bally Sports Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Shawn Armstrong will open Tuesday's contest for Tampa Bay, and Alexander is likely to follow as the primary pitcher. The left-hander has struggled in a swingman role this season and has a 6.19 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 48:13 K:BB across 56.2 innings.
May 31 2024The Rays optioned Alexander to Triple-A Durham on Friday, Ryan Bass of Bally Sports Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was just two weeks ago that Alexander flirted with a perfect game in Toronto, but that outing sticks out like a sore thumb on his game log. The lefty allowed four runs over 4.2 frames versus the Athletics on Thursday to push his ERA on the season up to 6.19. With Zach Eflin (back) poised to rejoin the Rays' rotation soon, Alexander has lost his spot.
May 30 2024Alexander won't start Thursday's game against the Athletics but is expected to be deployed in bulk relief behind opener Shawn Armstrong. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though he was roughed up for eight earned runs over five innings while working behind Armstrong in his last turn through the rotation May 24 versus the Royals, Alexander won't be used as a traditional starter Thursday and will instead enter the game after Armstrong once again. Despite the poor showing his last time out, Alexander has generally been reliable this season at the back end of the Tampa Bay rotation. In his seven outings prior to the blowup against the Royals, Alexander delivered a 4.30 ERA and 1.04 WHIP across 37.2 innings.
May 25 2024Alexander (2-3) took the loss Friday as the Rays fell 8-1 to the Royals, surrendering eight runs on 11 hits and a walk over five relief innings. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lefty entered the game after Shawn Armstrong delivered two perfect innings as the opener, but Kansas City quickly got to Alexander. The eight runs and 11 hits were both seasons worsts for the 29-year-old, and over his last three outings he's been tagged for 17 runs in 19.1 innings. Alexander will carry a 6.06 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 41:13 K:BB through 52 innings into his next appearance, which is scheduled to come at home next week against the A's.
May 23 2024Alexander is in line to serve as a bulk reliever in Friday's game versus the Royals, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander carried a perfect game into the eighth inning of his last outing in Toronto as a traditional starter, but he's slated to follow opener Shawn Armstrong on Friday. The left-hander holds a 5.06 ERA in six traditional starts and a 5.40 ERA in bulk relief this season.
May 18 2024Alexander (2-2) picked up the win Friday, giving up three runs on three hits over 7.1 innings in a 4-3 victory over the Blue Jays. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: His final line doesn't look quite so impressive, but the left-hander was perfect through seven innings before a Danny Jansen bloop single with one out in the eighth started a Toronto rally that chased Alexander from the game. He's now worked at least seven innings in back-to-back starts, although Alexander got tagged for six runs by the Yankees in his last start prior to Friday. He'll carry a 5.17 ERA, 1.21 WHIP and 37:12 K:BB through 47 innings into his next appearance, but despite the length he's provided of late, it's unclear whether Alexander will remain in the rotation when Ryan Pepiot (lower leg) returns.
May 13 2024Alexander (1-2) yielded six runs on seven hits and two walks over seven innings Sunday, striking out three and taking a loss against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was taken deep three times Sunday, including a pair of two-run shots from Jose Trevino and Aaron Judge. Alexander had given up just two home runs over his previous five appearances before Sunday. Despite the poor final line, it was his longest outing of the year. He owns a 5.45 ERA with a 33:12 K:BB through 39.2 frames. Alexander's next start is lined up to be in Toronto.
May 6 2024Alexander did not factor into the decision Friday against the White Sox, allowing two runs on four hits and one walk over four innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander looked especially sharp Monday night against a weak White Sox team, striking out a season-high seven batters while generating 13 whiffs. The Rays left-hander has pitched to the tune of a 4.96 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 30:10 K:BB over 32.2 innings this season. However, his time in the starting rotation is likely over as Taj Bradley (pectoral) appears on track to return from the injured list this week.
May 1 2024Alexander (1-1) took the loss Tuesday against Milwaukee after allowing three earned runs on six hits and two walks while striking out three batters across four innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was unable to keep the Brewers off the basepaths Tuesday, allowing three runs to score in the first two innings. He managed to keep Milwaukee from scoring over the next two frames but had to be pulled after needing 85 pitches to complete four innings, tying his shortest outing of the season. The 29-year-old southpaw owns a 5.02 ERA and 1.40 WHIP this season, though he'll have a good chance to bounce back during his next scheduled start Monday against the White Sox.
Apr 25 2024Alexander came away with a no-decision in Wednesday's 7-5 win over the Tigers, giving up two runs on three hits and a walk over four relief innings. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lefty entered the game in the second inning as the primary pitcher after Shawn Armstrong worked the first frame as the opener, but Alexander wound up missing out on a win after Chris Devenski coughed up a 4-3 lead in the sixth. Alexander tossed 56 pitches (38 strikes), and he's lasted at least four innings in all five of his outings this season, including two starts. He'll take a 4.74 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 20:7 K:BB through 24.2 innings into his next appearance, which should come early next week in Milwaukee if he remains on turn. With Taj Bradley (pectoral) about to begin a rehab assignment, though, Alexander's time as a rotation stopgap figures to last only a few more weeks.
Apr 24 2024Alexander is no longer scheduled to start Wednesday's game against the Tigers, but he's likely to pitch in bulk relief while Shawn Armstrong serves as the Rays' opening pitcher. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Alexander operated as a starter his last time out Friday against the Yankees and struck out four over 5.1 scoreless innings, he looks set to appear out of the bullpen for his upcoming turn through the rotation. Working in bulk relief isn't anything out of the ordinary for Alexander, who previously tossed six innings of two-run ball behind Armstrong in an April 14 win over the Giants. The arrangement should put Alexander in better position to be credited with a win, if the Rays are able to come away with a victory in the series finale versus Detroit.
Apr 20 2024Alexander came away with a no-decision Friday in a 5-3 loss to the Yankees, scattering two hits and a walk over 5.1 scoreless innings while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander didn't allow a Yankee to get past second base and left the game with a 1-0 lead, but the Rays' struggling bullpen made a mess once again. Alexander tossed 52 of 79 pitches for strikes, and after two straight strong performances, he appears to be locking down a regular turn in the Tampa Bay rotation either as a traditional starter or a bulk reliever -- he's made two appearances this season in each role so far. Alexander will take a 4.79 ERA, 1.35 WHIP and 16:6 K:BB through 20.2 innings into his next outing, which lines up to come at home next week against the Tigers.
Apr 18 2024Alexander will start Friday against the Yankees, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander has shifted between a bulk relief and a traditional starting role. It appears he's in line for the latter Friday, and he should have no limitations after working six innings in his last appearance, which came against San Francisco on Sunday.
Apr 14 2024Alexander (1-0) allowed two runs on six hits and a walk over six innings Sunday, striking out four and earning a win over the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After Shawn Armstrong threw two frames, Alexander took the mound in the third inning. Alexander allowed one run through his first four innings before coughing up a solo homer in the seventh. It was his longest outing of 2024 and the first time he's allowed fewer than four runs. He lowered his ERA to 6.46 with a 12:5 K:BB through 15.1 frames. Alexander will likely continue working behind an opener or as a back-end starter.
Apr 13 2024Alexander will serve as a bulk reliever for the Rays on Sunday against the Giants, Ryan Bass of Bally Sports Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Shawn Armstrong will handle opener duties before handing things over to Alexander. The left-handed Alexander has had a rough go of it so far in his first season in Tampa Bay, permitting nine earned runs on 14 hits through 9.1 innings.
Apr 9 2024The Rays placed Alexander on the bereavement list Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander has struggled in each of his first two appearances of the season, registering an 8.68 ERA, 1.93 WHIP and 8:4 K:BB over 9.1 innings. He's scheduled to start Friday against the Giants, but he will step away from the team for a few days to be with his family. In a corresponding move, the Rays recalled Kevin Kelly from Triple-A Durham.
Apr 6 2024Alexander completed 4.1 innings against Colorado on Saturday, allowing four runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out four batters in a no-decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander worked in bulk relief in his first game of the campaign last Sunday versus Toronto, but he was tabbed to start in Coors Field on Saturday. The left-hander pitched poorly enough to take the loss, allowing 10 baserunners while getting just 13 outs, but he was rescued from that fate when Tampa Bay's offense mounted a comeback in the late innings. It remains to be seen how he'll be used moving forward, but Alexander isn't an appealing fantasy target given that he has allowed nine runs and has served up four homers over 9.1 frames on the campaign while posting an 8:4 K:BB.
Mar 31 2024Alexander allowed five runs on six hits and two walks over five innings during Sunday's loss to the Blue Jays. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander struggled as he served as the bulk reliever for the Rays. It may have been Shawn Armstrong that was saddled with the loss, but Alexander unofficially earned that distinction with a poor performance that saw him serve up two home runs among the five runs he allowed.
Mar 30 2024Alexander will serve as a bulk reliever for the Rays in Sunday's game versus the Blue Jays, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Shawn Armstrong will open things for Tampa Bay before Alexander takes over. Alexander won the final spot in the Rays' rotation with a solid spring, but him being used as a bulk reliever rather than a traditional starter could be a regular occurrence.
Mar 25 2024Alexander has won the final spot in the Rays' Opening Day rotation, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander will pitch in the Rays' fourth game of the season Sunday against the Blue Jays, though it's possible he will follow an opener. The left-hander was used as a full-time reliever last season with the Tigers, but he has plenty of past starting experience and was stretched out to 89 pitches in a minor-league game Sunday. Alexander could be shifted to the bullpen when Shane Baz (elbow) and/or Taj Bradley (pectoral) are ready to return from the injured list, but that might be a while.
Mar 13 2024Alexander is a candidate to open the year as the Rays' No. 5 starter with Taj Bradley (pectoral) ruled out for the start of the season, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A partial lat tear ended Alexander's season in July and the Tigers decided to move on in November. The Rays claimed Alexander off waivers and may need him for important innings right away with Bradley shut down for a couple weeks. Alexander threw over 100 big-league frames for Detroit in 2021 and 2022 and has been building up for a substantial workload this spring. Jacob Lopez, Naoyuki Uwasawa, Jacob Waguespack and Chris Devenski were also mentioned as possible replacements in the starting rotation.
Feb 14 2024Alexander (lat) threw a bullpen session Wednesday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While he was with the Tigers last season, Alexander didn't make any appearances after July 2 due to a left lat strain. He's seemingly entering his first Rays camp with few restrictions, if any, as he was throwing Wednesday alongside the team's other healthy relievers. The lefty turned in an unremarkable 4.50 ERA in 44 appearances with Detroit in 2023, but he had stronger underlying metrics (3.66 xERA, 3.48 SIERA, career-best 21.5 K-BB%). The Rays claimed him off waivers in November after the Tigers non-tendered him and are hoping that he can serve as a reliable multi-inning option out of the bullpen.
Nov 14 2023Alexander (lat) signed a one-year contract with the Rays on Tuesday, avoiding arbitration, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was claimed off waivers from the Tigers last week. He finished the 2023 season on the 60-day injured list because of a partial lat tear but struck out 44 batters and issued only five walks over 44 innings when healthy.
Nov 10 2023The Rays claimed Alexander (lat) off waivers from the Tigers on Friday, Tricia Whitaker of Bally Sports Sun reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander missed much of the 2023 campaign with a tear in his left lat, although he's been throwing for a couple months and should be ready for spring training. The left-hander holds a career 4.38 ERA and 273:74 K:BB over 341.1 career major-league innings. He could operate as a swingman in Tampa Bay.
Nov 6 2023The Tigers designated Alexander (lat) for assignment Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Before his season came to an end in July when he suffered a partial tear to his left lat, Alexander had enjoyed a solid season out of the Detroit bullpen. He pitched to a so-so 4.50 ERA, but most of Alexander's peripherals (3.66 xERA, 21.5 K-BB%) were encouraging. Alexander had advanced to throwing long toss in September, so he should be tracking toward a return to full health by spring training. Though he's no longer a member of Detroit's 40-man roster, the 29-year-old lefty could make for an appealing flyer for another organization via a waiver claim.
Sep 12 2023Alexander (lat) has begun throwing on flat ground, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander has already been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a partial tear in his left lat which he suffered back in early July. It's a good sign that he's throwing again, though, which should set him up to have a relatively normal offseason.
Jul 9 2023Alexander won't require surgery for the partial tear in his left lat and is expected to be ready for the start of spring training in 2024, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 28-year-old will still miss the rest of the season while recovering from the injury, but the fact he won't require surgery is an encouraging development. According to Chris McCosky of The Detroit News, Alexander's rest-and-rehab program will start with being shut down from throwing for the next three months, but he should still have plenty of time to build his arm back up during the offseason.
Jul 4 2023Alexander was placed on the 60-day injured list Tuesday with a left lat strain. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander evidently suffered the injury during an appearance Sunday against the Rockies and he'll now be sidelined into September. He's expected to miss the remainder of the season, per Chris McCosky of The Detroit News. It's a blow to the Tigers' relief corps, as Alexander has pitched well with a 44:5 K:BB over 44 innings.
Jun 19 2023Alexander (2-1) tossed two scoreless innings of relief to earn the win Monday against the Royals. He allowed one hit and one walk, while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After a quality start from Reese Olson, Alexander worked through the seventh and eighth innings, scattering the two baserunners. It was the lefty's first win since May 3, though he's pitched fairly well lately, allowing just two earned runs over his last 13.2 innings. That's allowed Alexander to lower his ERA for the season to 4.66. He should stick in a long relief role for the Tigers, where he could vulture a few more wins, though fantasy impact may be hard to come by regularly.
Jun 18 2023Alexander pitched two scoreless innings of relief in Saturday's 2-0 loss to the Twins. He allowed a hit and two walks while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander has been serving some as an opener recently, though he worked as a more traditional long reliever Saturday, covering the last two innings of the game for the Tigers. Since allowing three runs in an outing May 26, the lefty has a 1.54 ERA over his past 11.2 innings, a span of five appearances. Alexander's season ERA now sits at 4.93, and he could continue whittling that down if he maintains his current form moving forward.
Jun 6 2023Alexander (1-1) allowed one run on one hit across three innings to take the loss Tuesday against the Phillies. He struck out three and had no walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Kyle Schwarber led off the game with a home run and it ended up being the only run either team would score. That left Alexander with a tough-luck loss, as this was one of his better outings of the season and his longest since going 3.1 innings on Opening Day. The lefty still has a rough 6.00 ERA overall and will likely continue to serve as a long reliever or occasional opener for the Tigers, giving him limited fantasy value.
Jun 5 2023Alexander will open Tuesday's game against the Phillies, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander will eat up an inning or two before making way for a primary pitcher. The team has yet to announce who will serve as the primary pitcher, though Garrett Hill was recalled Sunday and could be a candidate for long relief.
May 3 2023Alexander (1-0) retired the lone batter he faced but earned the win in Game 1 of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was the ultimate vulture in this one, as he only threw a single pitch but escaped as the pitcher of record in Detroit's 6-5 comeback victory. The lefty hasn't been much of a fantasy factor this season out of the bullpen with a 5.17 ERA across 15.2 innings and he's yet to make any spot starts after starting 32 times the last two years.
Mar 19 2023Alexander, who allowed three runs across one inning in Saturday's Grapefruit League game against the Cardinals, has a 7.04 ERA this spring. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander has been scored upon in only two of his five outings this spring, though he allowed three runs in each of those games, which has bloated his ERA. The lefty should still settle into a familiar swing role for the Tigers in 2023 after logging 101 innings last year. Alexander doesn't have a ton of fantasy value in relief, though he could be an occasional streamer if he makes some starts.
Feb 23 2023Alexander will likely work primarily in relief this season, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander made 17 starts and 10 relief appearances in 2022, but he's likely to be much more of a bullpen option this year with Matthew Boyd and Spencer Turnbull back in the starting mix coming off injuries. Newcomer Michael Lorenzen also figures to slot into the rotation, along with Eduardo Rodriguez and Matt Manning. Alexander is a valuable lefty swingman for the Tigers, though his fantasy value will be limited in a relief role. He's always an option to start if a need arises, however.
Nov 18 2022Alexander agreed to a one-year, $1.875 million contract with the Tigers on Friday, avoiding arbitration, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander has found his niche at the major-league level as a swingman, starting 42 games and pitching in relief in 53 others over the past four seasons. He turned in a 4.81 ERA and 1.32 WHIP over 101 innings in 2022 -- a step back from 2021, but still serviceable. The southpaw should be expected to get close to the century mark in terms of innings again in 2023.
Oct 5 2022Alexander allowed four runs across 5.2 innings and did not factor into the decision in Wednesday's loss to the Mariners. He gave up seven hits and one walk, while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander finished his 2023 campaign with another mediocre outing, giving him a 4.81 ERA and 61 strikeouts across 101 innings. The lefty has shown some value as a long reliever in the past, though he didn't stand out in 17 starts this season. Alexander will likely head into 2023 in a similar swing role, and while he may have some fantasy value as an occasional spot starter, he doesn't seem like a regular option at this point
Oct 1 2022Alexander (4-11) took the loss to the Twins on Friday, allowing three runs on five hits while striking out six and walking four over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander had a rough outing Friday, tossing 57 of 90 pitches for strikes and allowing nine baserunners. The hits and walks turned out to be Alexander's biggest downfall as all three runs he allowed came thanks to an RBI single, double and triple. Friday's appearance comes after back-to-back quality starts for the lefty, who saw his ERA rise to 4.72 after the outing.
Sep 25 2022Alexander allowed a run on four hits and a walk while striking out five in six innings during Sunday's win over the White Sox. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Although Alexander posted a second consecutive quality start Sunday, he was unable to pick up the win since the Tigers didn't generate any runs until the top of the seventh inning. However, it was encouraging to see the southpaw limit run production once again after he gave up 11 runs (10 earned) in 9.1 innings over his first two September starts. He tentatively lines up to make his next start at home against the Twins on Saturday.
Sep 19 2022Alexander (4-10) tossed seven scoreless innings to earn the win Monday against the Orioles. He allowed two hits and two walks, while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The typically tame Detroit offense exploded for 11 runs, which helped Alexander cruise to his first win in nearly a month. The lefty had allowed 10 earned runs across 9.1 innings in his last two starts, so this effort was a bit unexpected. Alexander now has a 4.91 ERA across 84.1 innings this season. He'll look to build on this positive outing in his next scheduled start Sunday against the White Sox, though he's still hard to trust for fantasy purposes.
Sep 12 2022Alexander won't make a start this week while the Tigers temporarily move to a four-man rotation, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With an off day on the schedule Thursday, the Tigers will skip Alexander's turn before likely slotting him back into the rotation when a fifth starter is next needed Sept. 20 in Baltimore. In lieu of the start this week, Alexander will throw an extra side session to stay stretched out, and it's possible that he'll be available in long relief for this weekend's series with the White Sox if needed. The Tigers' decision to bypass Alexander's spot in the rotation this week comes after he allowed four earned runs across five innings in a losing effort Sunday in Kansas City. Alexander owns a 10.06 ERA and 1.82 WHIP in 17 innings over his last four starts.
Sep 11 2022Alexander (3-10) took the loss Sunday in Kansas City, allowing four runs on six hits, a walk and a hit batsman while striking out two in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The damage against Alexander could have been worse as he was the beneficiary of two unconventional double plays -- one on a sacrifice fly and the other after a strikeout. Three of the six hits allowed went for extra bases, including Michael Massey's fourth-inning solo homer. Alexander has struggled mightily in his last four starts, going 0-3 with a 10.06 ERA, 1.82 WHIP and seven homers allowed in 17 innings and raising his season ERA from 4.03 to 5.35. Should he continue to start for Detroit, his next outing will likely be next weekend against the White Sox.
Sep 5 2022Alexander (3-9) allowed seven runs (six earned) on 10 hits and no walks while striking out two in 4.1 innings, taking the loss Monday versus the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was tagged for multiple runs in the first, third and fifth innings, as he struggled against the heart of the Angels' order. This was the third straight outing where Alexander's failed to complete five innings, and he's given up 16 runs (15 earned) across 12 frames in that span. The poor stretch has inflated his ERA to 5.23 with a 1.38 WHIP and 39:16 K:BB through 72.1 innings across 22 appearances (12 starts). He's lined up for a more favorable road start in Kansas City this weekend.
Aug 31 2022Alexander pitched 4.2 innings, surrendering two runs on four hits and a walk while striking out four in Wednesday's loss to the Mariners. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was tagged for a two-run homer by Eugenio Suarez in the top of the first inning, accounting for all the damage against him before he exited with two outs in the fifth frame. The right-hander rebounded well Wednesday after getting crushed for seven runs Friday versus the Rangers. Alexander has produced a 5.45 ERA and 1.36 WHIP with 19 strikeouts over 34.2 innings in seven starts since joining the Tigers rotation in late July.
Aug 27 2022Alexander (3-8) took the loss to the Rangers on Friday, allowing seven runs on eight hits while striking out three and walking one over three innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander had a rough day Friday, getting knocked around for seven earned runs across three frames. He threw 43 of 68 pitches for strikes and was relieved Garrett Hill for the fourth inning. Alexander was mostly done in by home runs, three in total. He allowed a solo homer in the first inning, a three-run shot in the second and a two-run blast in the third. This was his worst start of the season, though he turned in a quality start in two of his three previous outings. Alexander's ERA shot up from 4.03 to 4.83 after Friday's debacle.
Aug 20 2022Alexander (3-7) earned the win over the Angels on Saturday, allowing three runs on seven hits and one walk while striking out two batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander got off to a shaky beginning when he allowed a run in each of the first three frames, but he settled down from there and kept the Angels off the scoreboard for the remainder of the start. The left-hander got by despite inducing only five swinging strikes and fanning only two batters. The victory was his first since July 4 and snapped a string of four straight losses. Despite his recent troubles getting into the win column, Alexander has pitched fairly well of late, posting a 3.60 ERA across 30 innings over his past six appearances.
Aug 14 2022Alexander (2-7) took the loss Sunday against the White Sox, allowing three runs on six hits and three walks while striking out two in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander navigated the first four innings fairly well, pitching around trouble other than allowing a solo homer to AJ Pollock in the third. In the fifth, he got hit hard and two doubles and a single led to two more runs. Since returning to the rotation at the end of July, he is 0-4 with a 3.86 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 10:5 K:BB in 21 innings across four starts. His next start will likely be next weekend against the Angels.
Aug 9 2022Alexander (2-6) allowed just two runs on seven hits across seven innings but took the loss Tuesday against the Guardians. He had no walks and struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander pitched well, but his teammates offered no run support against Cleveland ace Shane Bieber. Over three starts since rejoining the rotation in late July, Alexander has a strong 3.38 ERA, but the lefty has an 0-3 record to show for it. The Detroit offense limits the upside of any starter because wins are hard to come by, though Alexander may at least be able to help with ratios if he keeps pitching like this. He's currently scheduled to start again Sunday against the White Sox and will hope for a little more offense behind him.
Aug 3 2022Alexander (2-5) allowed just two runs on two hits across five innings but took the loss Wednesday against the Twins. He walked one and struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander probably deserved a better fate, but Detroit's bats were stymied by Joe Ryan and four Minnesota relievers. Alexander has now made consecutive appearances as a starter, allowing four earned runs across nine innings. The lefty worked as a long reliever earlier in the season, but with Detroit dealing with several injuries in the rotation, he'll likely stick as a starter. His next outing is tentatively set for Tuesday against the Guardians.
Jul 28 2022Alexander (2-4) allowed three runs (two earned) on five hits across four innings to take the loss Thursday against the Blue Jays. He walked one and struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was making his fifth start of the season and first since April 29. The lefty pitched decently against a strong Toronto lineup, but he was limited to just 69 pitches across four innings of work. With Michael Pineda (triceps) hitting the injured list last weekend, Alexander will likely stick in the rotation for the time being and might be able to build up his pitch count moving forward. He's currently slated to take the mound again Wednesday against the Twins.
Jul 27 2022Alexander is slated to start Thursday's series opener in Toronto, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: When Alexander was reinstated from the 15-day injured list in mid-June, the Tigers initially used him in a relief role, but an assortment of injuries to other starting pitchers has prompted manager A.J. Hinch to move the lefty back into the bullpen. Alexander made his fourth start of the season coming out of the All-Star break and acquitted himself well last Thursday against the Blue Jays, tossing three scoreless frames and allowing one baserunner before turning the game over to the bullpen. Since he's not yet fully stretched back out, Alexander could be on a limited pitch count in his rematch Thursday with Toronto.
Jul 24 2022Alexander is expected to start Thursday's contest against the Blue Jays, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander will replace Michael Pineda (triceps) in the latter's next scheduled start Thursday against the Blue Jays. The 28-year-old Alexander has produced a 4.05 ERA and 1.29 WHIP with 18 strikeouts over 33.1 innings in 14 appearances, including four starts with the Tigers this season. Manager A.J. Hinch said that the team is taking it start-by-start for now, making it possible that Alexander only makes one start before returning to the bullpen.
Jul 17 2022Alexander and the Tigers won't face the Guardians on Sunday after the game was postponed due to inclement weather in Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander had been scheduled to make his fifth start of the season Sunday in what would have been a bullpen day for the Tigers, but the postponement ends up thwarting those plans. The two teams are scheduled to make up the postponed contest Aug. 15 in a traditional doubleheader.
Jul 16 2022Alexander will be the first pitcher on the mound in what's expected to be a bullpen game Sunday against the Guardians, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander does have starting experience, as he's started 29 games at the big-league level in his career, but he's not expeced to pitch too deep into Sunday's contest. He's topped out at 3.2 innings over his last 12 appearances, and the Tigers should be able to use plenty of relievers with a three-day break coming up after Sunday's game.
Jul 11 2022Alexander, who allowed one run across 3.1 innings of relief in Game 2 of Monday's doubleheader against the Royals, has a 1.06 ERA across his last eight appearances. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The run actually snapped a streak of six straight scoreless outings for Alexander. The lefty has allowed just two runs across 17 innings since returning from the injured list June 13. He's still working in a long-relief role for the time being, but the Tigers could give Alexander a shot in the rotation at some point, as he made 15 starts a season ago. The team currently has Tarik Skubal, Beau Brieske, Michael Pineda and Drew Hutchison as healthy starters on the roster, with Alex Faedo optioned to Triple-A following his start in Monday's nightcap.
Jul 4 2022Alexander (2-3) worked around two hits to toss 3.1 scoreless innings and earn the win in Game 2 of Monday's doubleheader against the Guardians. He had no walks or strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander came on in the fourth inning when starter Alex Faedo departed with right hip soreness. The lefty reliever did a nice job, and he earned his second win of the season after the Tigers rallied for the 5-3 win. Alexander has a 4.56 ERA this season, but he's been much better since returning from the injured list last month. Across 13.1 innings following his return, he has a miniscule 0.68 ERA.
Jun 26 2022Alexander (1-3) tossed two scoreless innings of relief to earn the win Saturday against the Diamondbacks. He allowed a hit and a walk while striking out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Following four innings from starter Alex Faedo, Alexander navigated the fifth and sixth. The lefty pitched well, and he's starting to look better after a rough start to the season. Alexander had an 8.76 ERA across 12.1 innings before landing on the injured list in early May with a left elbow sprain. Since returning June 13, he has a 1.13 ERA and 0.88 WHIP over eight innings of work. Alexander was a valuable pitcher for the Tigers in 2021, registering a 3.81 ERA across 41 appearances (15 starts), and he may be returning to that form in 2022.
Jun 13 2022Alexander (elbow) was activated from the 15-day injured list following Monday's game against the White Sox, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander remains a candidate to start Tuesday's matchup, though the club has yet to announce official pitching plans. Drew Hutchison's contract was selected from Triple-A Toledo, so he may also be in the mix for a start. Alexander last toed the rubber April 29 against the Dodgers, giving up four runs on three hits and two walks while fanning one over 2.1 frames.
Jun 12 2022Alexander (elbow) could come off the injured list to make a spot start Tuesday against the White Sox, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Tuesday will amount to a bullpen game for the Tigers either way, and it's unclear if Alexander will be a part of that or if he will head to Triple-A Toledo for a rehab assignment.
Jun 8 2022Alexander (elbow) will make rehab appearances at Triple-A Toledo on Friday and Saturday, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander struck out one in two perfect relief innings Tuesday, and his pair of rehab appearances as a reliever this weekend will likely be the final step in his recovery prior to rejoining the major-league club. The southpaw will serve as a multi-inning bridge reliever once he's reinstated from the injured list, and it seems likely that he'll be back with the Tigers early next week.
Jun 2 2022Manager A.J. Hinch said Thursday that Alexander (elbow) will serve as a multi-inning bridge reliever once he's deemed ready to return from the 15-day injured list, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Even though Alexander looks on track to beat each of the other five starting pitchers sidelined with injuries back from the IL, the Tigers are apparently content to have younger arms like Alex Faedo, Beau Brieske and Elvin Rodriguez fill out the back end of the rotation. After Alexander gave up five runs over three innings in his first rehab start for Triple-A Toledo last weekend, Hinch said the lefty is scheduled to throw another two innings Saturday for Toledo. The Tigers plan to have Alexander make another two-inning appearance for Toledo early next week before bringing him back from the IL.
May 31 2022Alexander (elbow) was charged with five earned runs on six hits and a walk while striking out two over three innings in his first rehab start Monday at Triple-A Toledo. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pitching in a game for the first time since April 29 after being sidelined with a left elbow sprain, Alexander wasn't particularly sharp, with Tigers manager A.J. Hinch noting that the southpaw had "a couple bad changeups," per Evan Petzold of The Detroit Free Press. Alexander at least displayed decent control during the outing, pumping in 36 of his 51 pitches for strikes. He's scheduled to make his second rehab start with Toledo on Saturday, and Hinch said that he wants Alexander to get stretched out to around 90 pitches before he's activated from the 15-day injured list and reinstalled in the big-league rotation. With that in mind, Alexander could need a third rehab start prior to being reinstated.
May 26 2022Alexander (elbow) is expected to make a rehab start at Triple-A Toledo on Monday, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander had been limited to throwing off flat ground recently, but he's made good progress over the last week and threw two innings against live hitters Tuesday. The southpaw has been on the injured list since May 2, and it's not yet clear how many rehab starts he'll require prior to rejoining the Tigers.
May 19 2022Alexander (elbow) has been limited to throwing on flat ground since landing on the 15-day injured list May 2, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander is one of five Tigers starting pitchers currently on the IL, and Eduardo Rodriguez (side) will make it six when the team deactivates him at some point before Friday's game in Cleveland. Though Alexander didn't enter the season as a major rotation piece for Detroit, his absence due to the left elbow sprain looms large with so many other key arms also on the mend. Since he has yet to graduate to throwing off a mound since being shelved more than two weeks ago, Alexander appears unlikely to return until June at the soonest.
May 4 2022Alexander (elbow) recently underwent an MRI that came back clean, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander landed on the 15-day injured list Monday due to a left elbow sprain, but it's encouraging that he doesn't appear to be dealing with any structural damage. The southpaw had been pitching through pain for about a month, and it impacted his mechanics and may have contributed to his 8.76 ERA and 1.78 WHIP in 12.1 innings over his first four starts of the year. Although the results of his MRI brought good news, a timetable for Alexander's return isn't yet known.
May 2 2022The Tigers placed Alexander on the 15-day injured list Monday with a left elbow sprain, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The move was made retroactive to Saturday, the day Alexander last pitched. He surrendered four runs over 2.1 innings in a loss to the Dodgers that day, giving up two home runs while walking two and striking out one. The 27-year-old has posted a 8.76 ERA and 1.78 WHIP over 12.1 innings this season. The Tigers have yet to announce a replacement for Alexander in the rotation, though they won't have much flexibility with Casey Mize (elbow) and Matt Manning (shoulder) already on the IL.
Apr 30 2022Alexander (0-3) took the loss during Friday's 5-1 defeat at the hands of the Dodgers, allowing four runs on three hits and two walks with one strikeout in 2.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was victimized by home runs during each of his first two innings that got Detroit into a deficit it would not recover from. After a decent debut against Boston on April 12, the 27-year-old has surrendered nine runs through seven innings across three starts. He's currently slated to pitch during next weekend's series in Houston, though Alexander probably won't stick in the rotation once Casey Mize (elbow) and Matt Manning (shoulder) return if he continues to bleed runs.
Apr 24 2022Alexander (0-2) allowed five runs on eight hits across 3.2 innings to take the loss Sunday against the Rockies. He walked one and struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was ineffective for the second straight start, as he only lasted one inning and took the loss against the Yankees his last time out. The big blow against the lefty was a two-run home run by Randal Grichuk in the third inning. Alexander now has a rough 7.20 ERA on the season, though he should stick in the rotation for now with Casey Mize (elbow) and Matt Manning (shoulder) on the injured list. He lines up to face a tough Dodgers team in his next scheduled start Saturday, so fantasy managers will probably want to stay away.
Apr 19 2022Alexander (0-1) took the loss Tuesday against the Yankees after giving up two runs (zero earned) on one hit with two strikeouts and two walks over one inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander needed 42 pitches to get through the opening frame and was victimized by his own error on an infield popup, which allowed two unearned runs to score. There were no health concerns for Alexander, but manager A.J. Hinch opted to utilize a well-rested bullpen after the arduous first inning. The 27-year-old lines up for a start against the Rockies on Sunday, and he should retain his rotation spot for the foreseeable future with Casey Mize (elbow) on the injured list and Matt Manning (shoulder) likely to miss at least one start.
Apr 18 2022Alexander may be able to stick in the Tigers' rotation for an extended period of time with Casey Mize (elbow) on the IL and Matt Manning (shoulder) leaving his most recent start early, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manning felt right shoulder discomfort during his outing Saturday, and while he hasn't been placed on the IL yet, the Tigers may exercise some caution. Michael Pineda is still ramping up in the minors after a late start to camp, but even his eventual return leaves a few holes in the rotation behind Eduardo Rodriguez and Tarik Skubal. Alexander's fantasy value will be increased as long as he's starting games and not working in long relief.
Apr 17 2022Alexander won't start as scheduled Sunday against the Royals since the game was postponed due to inclement weather, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was poised to make his second start of the season Sunday, but he'll instead be pushed back to later this week. According to Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic, the left-hander is set to take the mound Tuesday against the Yankees following Monday's scheduled off day.
Apr 12 2022Alexander allowed three runs on five hits across 5.1 innings and did not factor into the decision Tuesday against the Red Sox. He struck out four and didn't walk anyone. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander pitched reasonably well in his season debut, and he actually entered the sixth inning with a 3-0 lead before seeing things unravel a bit. He allowed two runs on three hits before getting the hook with one out, and Jacob Barnes then allowed the inherited runner to score. Alexander is filling the rotation spot of Michael Pineda, who was delayed in arriving to spring training due to visa issues. Alexander is slated to start again Sunday against the Royals, though Pineda may be ready to go after that, which would push Alexander into a long-relief role.
Mar 29 2022Alexander is expected to be included in the Tigers' Opening Day rotation as the No. 5 starter while Michael Pineda's arrival at spring training remains delayed by visa issues, Jon Morosi of MLB Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Pineda's visa issues could be resolved any day now, the 33-year-old won't have enough time to complete a buildup program that would put him on track to handle a starter's workload by the time the regular season begins. Prior to Detroit's addition of Pineda earlier this month, Alexander had already been stretching out for a possible starting role, so his preparation for the upcoming season shouldn't be affected by Pineda's ongoing absence. According to Morosi, the Tigers are expecting Alexander to take up to two turns in the rotation before transitioning into a long-relief role once Pineda is available.
Mar 22 2022Alexander is expected to open the season in the rotation, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Tigers added Michael Pineda on Friday, which seemingly pushed Alexander to the bullpen. Pineda may not be ready to start by Opening Day due to his late signing, however, so Alexander could get at least a turn or two in the rotation before heading to the bullpen.
Mar 19 2022With the Tigers adding Michael Pineda on Friday, per Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press, Alexander will likely head to the bullpen to begin the season. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was slotted in as the team's No. 5 starter, but the addition of Pineda should change that. The new addition figures to join Eduardo Rodriguez, Casey Mize, Tarik Skubal and Matt Manning in the rotation. Alexander has proven capable of both starting and pitching in relief during his career, and he could rejoin the rotation if anyone gets bumped due to injury or ineffectiveness. For now, the lefty's fantasy value takes a hit in a long relief role.
Mar 17 2022Alexander is set to start the Tigers' fifth spring training game Tuesday against the Phillies, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander is expected to begin the regular season as the team's fifth starter, but veteran Chase Anderson was also added to the mix Monday on a minor-league deal. Alexander has the ability to swing between the rotation and bullpen, though he'd certainly have more fantasy value starting. The lefty will be looking to make a good first impression Tuesday in an effort to secure the rotation spot.
Mar 15 2022The Tigers are still looking to add starting pitchers before the season starts, which could push Alexander out of a rotation spot, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander is tentatively set as the team's fifth starter, but the lefty has proven himself capable as a long reliever in the past as well. Eduardo Rodriguez, Casey Mize, Tarik Skubal and Matt Manning should all be locked in as starters, and the Tigers also added veteran Chase Anderson on a minor-league deal Monday as a potential rotation option. Alexander could have a little fantasy value if he's starting, though he seems likely to shift to the bullpen at some point this season.
Mar 13 2022Manager AJ Hinch said Sunday that Alexander currently lines up as Detroit's No. 5 starter, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander split time between a long-relief role and the rotation in 2021 with starts in 15 of 41 appearances, and he finished with a 3.81 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 87:28 K:BB across 106.1 innings. The left-hander could revert to that role for 2022 if the Tigers bring aboard any additional free agents over the next couple weeks, but at this point he's poised to open the campaign as a starter.
Oct 3 2021Alexander allowed one run across six innings but did not factor into the decision Sunday against the White Sox. He gave up four hits and two walks while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander left the game with a 2-1 lead but lost his chance at his third win of the year when the White Sox tied the game in the seventh inning. The lefty pitched well to end the season, allowing just four runs across 17 innings in his last three starts. The good stretch of games brought his ERA down to 3.81, which is a new career best. Alexander figures to give the Tigers an option as a starter or long reliever in 2022, potentially swinging between the two roles as he's done so far in his career.
Sep 28 2021Alexander (2-4) allowed just one run across six innings but took the loss Tuesday against the Twins. He gave up four hits and a walk while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander had one of his better outings of the season, but the Tigers didn't score any runs while the lefty was on the mound. Despite the tough loss, Alexander continued his good performance lately, as this was the third time in his last four starts that he allowed two runs or fewer. He'll have one more chance to impress in the regular season finale Sunday against the White Sox.
Sep 21 2021Alexander allowed two runs on eight hits and a pair of walks while striking out two batters across 5.2 innings during Tuesday's win over the White Sox. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It wasn't a dominant start by any means -- Alexander gave up a season-worst eight hits -- but he kept the Tigers in the game to position them for the win. The 27-year-old has found success this month, yielding seven earned runs over 20.1 frames. On the season, Alexander has compiled a 4.10 ERA and 1.30 WHIP.
Sep 16 2021Alexander (2-3) took the loss in Thursday's 5-2 defeat at the hands of the Rays, allowing four runs (three earned) on five hits and two walks with four strikeouts in 5.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making a second straight start against Tampa Bay, Alexander gave up two runs in the first inning and navigated the next three innings unscathed before encountering more trouble the third time through the order. He's pitched well in September, permitting five earned runs in 14.2 innings, and lines up to face the White Sox on Tuesday.
Sep 15 2021Alexander will start in Thursday's game against the Rays in Tampa Bay, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After a brief cameo out of the bullpen Sept. 7, Alexander rejoined the rotation last weekend versus Tampa Bay, stepping in for the injured Matthew Boyd (elbow) on late notice. With Boyd having since landed on the injured list and at risk of missing the rest of the season, Alexander should have some security in a starting role. Since the start of August, Alexander has posted a 3.00 ERA and 1.12 WHIP across 33 innings.
Sep 10 2021Alexander allowed a run on five hits and two walks with four strikeouts in 4.1 innings in a no-decision versus Tampa Bay on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw yielded the first run of the game on a Joey Wendle RBI single in the fifth inning. Alexander was expected to be taken out of the rotation, but Matthew Boyd (elbow) was a late scratch Friday, which could allow Alexander to remain in the rotation going forward. He's pitched to a decent 4.09 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and 71:21 K:BB across 83.2 innings this year. Even if he remains a starter, his workload management has typically seen him work less than five innings, making it unlikely for him to earn many wins unless he works behind an opener. Alexander is tentatively projected for a rematch with the Rays next week.
Sep 8 2021Alexander won't make a star during the Tigers' weekend series with the Rays and isn't expected to rejoin the rotation until next week, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Detroit is listing Matthew Boyd, Casey Mize and Tarik Skubal as its starters for the series with Tampa Bay, with all three pitchers returning to the mound on five days' rest. The Tigers' decision to skip Alexander's turn in the rotation was foreshadowed by his appearance out of the bullpen in Tuesday's loss to the Pirates, when he tossed a scoreless inning. Alexander should be available in relief for the rest of the week before likely slotting back into the rotation when a fifth starter is next needed Sept. 18 in Tampa Bay.
Sep 4 2021Alexander didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 15-5 win over the Reds, allowing one run on two hits and two walks over 3.2 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Tigers supplied all the run support the southpaw could have asked for, but Alexander wasn't efficient enough to qualify for his third win, getting the hook after 79 pitches (50 strikes). He'll take a 4.25 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 66:19 K:BB through 78.1 innings into his next appearance.
Sep 3 2021Alexander will remain in the rotation and serve as a traditional starter Friday in Cincinnati, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Tigers deployed Alexander as a bulk reliever in his last turn through the rotation on Aug. 28, when Jose Urena was reinstated from the 10-day injured list to start the contest. With Urena having since made a relief appearance Wednesday, Alexander looks on track to fill a normal starting role moving forward. Before the relief appearance his last time out, Alexander had worked at least five innings in each of his prior three starts.
Aug 28 2021Alexander is expected to work as a primary pitcher out of the bullpen behind starter Jose Urena in Saturday's game against the Blue Jays, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Since Urena is returning from a groin injury that kept him on the 10-day injured list for nearly six weeks and didn't get fully stretched out during his rehab assignment, he's only expected to work a maximum of 2-to-3 innings Saturday. Alexander is expected to then follow Urena and will cover the bulk of the innings in long relief, which should put him in good position to factor into any decision.
Aug 20 2021Alexander allowed one run on four hits and two walks with six strikeouts in seven innings in a no-decision versus Toronto on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The only run on Alexander's line was a solo home run by Vladimir Guerrero in the fourth inning. Other than that, the southpaw was excellent in his longest outing of the season and his first quality start. The strong showing dropped his ERA to 4.25 with a 1.26 WHIP and 59:16 K:BB across 72 innings. The 27-year-old lines up for a rematch at home versus Toronto next weekend, potentially on longer rest since Detroit has two off days next week.
Aug 13 2021Alexander (2-2) allowed four runs across five innings to take the loss Friday against Cleveland. He gave up six hits and struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander pitched reasonably well, though three of the six hits he allowed went for extra bases, including a home run by Ernie Clement. The lefty has held his own as a starter for the Tigers recently, registering a 3.77 ERA across his last three outings (14.1 innings). He's currently penciled in to make his next start Aug. 20 against the Blue Jays and should remain in the rotation for the foreseeable future with Jose Urena (groin), Matthew Boyd (triceps) and Spencer Turnbull (forearm) all on the injured list
Aug 7 2021Alexander (2-1) allowed four hits and struck out four over 5.1 scoreless innings, getting the win in Saturday's 2-1 victory over Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander needed this one. After allowing seven runs in his last two starts, the left-hander blanked Cleveland through 5.1 innings of ruthlessly efficient baseball. While Alexander couldn't eclipse his season high of four strikeouts, he didn't walk a batter and needed just 62 pitches to record 16 outs. He did exit the game in a two-on, one-out jam, but Michael Fulmer mopped it up to keep the 27-year-old's line spotless. If Alexander can continue to pitch like this, it would be a boon to a Tigers team short on starting pitching depth.
Aug 1 2021Alexander allowed two runs on four hits and two walks with two strikeouts in four innings in a no-decision versus Baltimore on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw has gone four innings in each of his last two starts, and Sunday's was much better than his previous effort Tuesday. Alexander allowed a pair of RBI doubles in the first inning, but he was able to gain control later in his start, and Detroit's offense got him off the hook for the loss. The 27-year-old owns a 4.77 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 45:14 K:BB through 54.2 innings. He lines up for his next start in Cleveland next weekend.
Jul 27 2021Alexander allowed five runs on six hits across four innings but did not factor into the decision Tuesday against the Twins. He walked one and struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander allowed four first-inning runs and was in line for his second loss of the season, but a Detroit rally in the ninth inning got the lefty off the hook. Alexander has now made three straight starts for the Tigers, and this was actually the longest outing of the bunch, so he's still not stretching out very much. The team needs Alexander to start with Jose Urena (groin), Matthew Boyd (triceps) and Spencer Turnbull (forearm) all on the injured list, though the former isn't moving the needle much for fantasy managers with the short starts. Alexander lines up to face the Orioles in his next scheduled appearance Sunday.
Jul 22 2021Alexander allowed one run across 3.2 innings and did not factor into the decision Thursday against the Rangers. He gave up three hits and a walk while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander made his fourth start of the season and second in a row, but he was still limited to just 59 pitches and was unable to qualify for the win in a game the Tigers captured 7-5. The lefty figures to stick in the rotation moving forward with the likes of Jose Urena (groin), Matthew Boyd (triceps) and Spencer Turnbull (forearm) all on the injured list. Expect Alexander to build his pitch count up a bit more in his next scheduled start, which is set for Tuesday against the Twins.
Jul 18 2021Alexander is scheduled to make his second straight turn through the rotation Thursday against the Rangers, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was summoned from the bullpen to make a spot start in the second game of Saturday's doubleheader sweep of the Twins. He was limited to 48 pitches and recorded 10 outs during the start, surrendering two runs on four hits while striking out one. The lefty should face slightly fewer restrictions with his workload Thursday, though it would be surprising if he covered more than five innings. Detroit hasn't announced its plans for Alexander beyond Thursday, but he could be in store for an extended stay in the rotation with none of Julio Teheran (shoulder), Matthew Boyd (triceps), Spencer Turnbull (forearm) or Jose Urena (groin) considered especially close to returning from the injured list.
Jul 17 2021Alexander will open a bullpen game in the nightcap of Saturday's doubleheader against the Twins, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It will be the third start of 2021 for Alexander, who has a 4.31 ERA and 36:10 K:BB in 39.2 innings of work this season. The lefty only figures to last an inning or two before turning things over to the bullpen to get through the seven-inning contest.
Jul 4 2021Alexander (1-1) allowed one hit and one walk while striking out three over 2.1 scoreless innings to earn the win Sunday versus the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander entered the game after a short start from Matt Manning. The left-handed Alexander was effective in this appearance, his third straight without allowing a run. For the year, he owns a 4.38 ERA, 1.35 WHIP and 35:7 K:BB across 37 innings. The 26-year-old continues to work in a bulk relief role -- he has just two holds in 24 outings.
Jun 14 2021Alexander (0-1) was tagged with the loss Sunday against the White Sox after giving up two runs on four hits while fanning three across 2.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was tasked with recording the final out of the third inning and accomplished that goal, but he allowed runs in each of his two subsequent frames -- that was enough to drop a decision for the first time in 2021. The left-hander has now allowed runs in each of his last four appearances and has looked far from convincing on the mound, posting a 4.71 ERA in just 28.2 innings across 18 appearances (two starts).
Jun 10 2021Alexander allowed one earned run on three hits and one walk while striking out two across 2.2 innings Thursday against the Mariners. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander led off a bullpen game for the Tigers and threw 56 pitches. The lone run he allowed came on a solo home shot in the first inning by Mitch Haniger. Though he exited the game with a 3-1 lead, Alexander did not pitch deep enough into the game to qualify for the win.
Jun 1 2021Alexander started Monday's game against the Brewers and pitched one scoreless inning. He allowed one hit and struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Detroit gave Alexander his first start of the season in place of Jose Urena (forearm), and he wasn't allowed to work very deep in the game after not going more than three innings in any of his relief appearances so far. Alexander made 10 starts for the Tigers across the last two years, so he does have some experience in the rotation. He could get stretched out a bit more if he sticks as a starter while Urena is out, though the latter could be back as soon as Sunday.
May 30 2021Alexander will start Monday's game against the Brewers, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander will make his first start of the season in place of Jose Urena (forearm), who was placed on the injured list Saturday. Alexander has allowed three hits and one walk while striking out two in four innings across his last four relief appearances.
Mar 21 2021Alexander has a 3.00 ERA, 0.89 WHIP and six strikeouts through nine Grapefruit League innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander has looked good this spring, and the lefty will definitely have a spot on the 26-man roster coming out of camp. The bigger question is what exactly his role will look like. Alexander has the flexibility to work as a starter and a reliever, and he did a little of both for the Tigers last season when he registered a 3.96 ERA across 36.1 innings. For now, he looks like more of a long reliever, but he could find himself in the rotation if other pitchers struggle or deal with injuries.
Feb 25 2021Alexander will start for the Tigers in their first Grapefruit League game Sunday, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander is one of a handful of pitchers competing for a spot in the back of Detroit's rotation. The lefty made headlines last year when he set a MLB record with nine consecutive strikeouts in a game, and he finished the year with a solid 3.96 ERA across 14 games (two starts). The Tigers may continue to use him in more of a swing role, but Alexander is capable of decent numbers if he gets an extended look in the rotation.
Sep 18 2020Alexander (2-2) allowed a run on three hits across two innings to take the loss Friday against Cleveland. He walked two and struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander followed starter Michael Fulmer, who tossed three scoreless frames, and the former allowed the game's first run in his second inning of work. That was enough to saddle Alexander with the loss as Cleveland prevailed 1-0. The lefty now has a 4.01 ERA and will continue to work as a long reliever out of the Detroit bullpen, though he's capable of making a spot start if needed.
Sep 11 2020Alexander worked behind starter Jordan Zimmermann in the Tigers' 6-3 win over the Cardinals in the second game of Thursday's doubleheader. He tossed 1.2 innings and gave up two runs on three hits and two walks while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander's previous appearance Sept. 4 had come in a starting role, but he shifted back to the bullpen with Zimmermann's return from a forearm injury providing Detroit with another healthy rotation arm. However, since Zimmermann had been sidelined all season before being activated Thursday, he was pulled after three innings (42 pitches), which allowed Alexander to piggyback him. Detroit should have a fairly normal schedule for the rest of the season with no more doubleheaders currently on tap, so Alexander could have fewer opportunities to work multiple innings.
Sep 5 2020Alexander allowed one run on seven hits over four innings in a no-decision against the Twins in the second game of Friday's doubleheader. He struck out four and did not issue a walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lefty did his best to quiet the Twins' offense, though he was limited to 59 pitches in the spot start and would not have earned the win even if the Tigers' bullpen hadn't squandered a late lead. Alexander made history earlier this season, tying the AL record for the most consecutive outs via strikeout by a reliever (nine), but his overall numbers are just OK and the swingman/long-relief role works against him in a big way from a fantasy standpoint.
Sep 4 2020Alexander will start Game 2 of Friday's doubleheader against the Twins, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old moved back to the bullpen in mid-August after a brief stint in the rotation, but he'll return to the mound for a spot start in Friday's doubleheader. Alexander has covered three-plus innings during each of his last three outings and averaged about 60 pitches, so he should be able to provide some decent length for the Tigers, though he may have trouble qualifying for a potential victory.
Aug 17 2020Alexander will pitch out of the bullpen going forward but could be called upon to pitch in a multi-inning role following the debuts of Tarik Skubal and Casey Mize on Tuesday and Wednesday, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander has recorded anywhere between one and 11 outs in his six appearances thus far this season, with only one outing coming as a start. The arrivals of Skubal and Mize push him further down the rotation depth chart, though neither pitcher is ready for a true starter's workload just yet, so Alexander's ability to provide length remains valuable.
Aug 15 2020Alexander will be the Tigers' primary pitcher Sunday, following opener Michael Fulmer, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In a flurry of moves following Ivan Nova's (triceps) trip to the injured list Saturday, Alexander will be the Tigers' primary pitcher following a few innings of work by Fulmer. Alexander was originally scheduled to start Monday, so now the Tigers have some decisions to make as to who they would like to take the mound Monday and Tuesday against the White Sox. A lot of people are speculating top pitching prospect Casey Mize will be called up, although nothing has been made official yet.
Aug 11 2020Alexander (1-1) allowed five earned runs across 3.2 innings to take the loss Tuesday against the White Sox. He gave up four hits and three walks, while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander struck out 10 batters, including an American League record nine in a row, in a relief appearance that spanned 3.2 innings back on Aug. 2, but the lefty was unable to recapture that magic in his first start of 2020. He was tagged for two home runs and saw his ERA rise from 1.17 to 4.76. Alexander will likely stick in the rotation for now, but the recently demoted Daniel Norris looms as an option to claim a spot at some point, as does top prospect Casey Mize.
Aug 7 2020Alexander will be a member of the Tigers' rotation going forward, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander certainly earned the opportunity after striking out nine batters in a row (and 10 batters total) in a relief appearance Sunday. Eight of his MLB appearances thus far in his career have come as a starter, with nine coming in relief. He's allowed a .356 wOBA as a starter compared to a .287 mark out of the bullpen, though the gap between his 4.54 ERA as a starter and his 4.12 ERA as a reliever isn't particularly large.
Aug 2 2020Alexander struck out 10 over 3.2 no-hit innings of long relief Sunday in the Tigers' 4-3 loss to the Reds in the first game of a doubleheader. He didn't factor into the decision in the seven-inning contest and allowed two baserunners, one via a walk and the other via a hit by pitch. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After opening pitcher Rony Garcia covered the first two innings, Alexander took over and proceeded to turn in one of the most dominant performances by a relief pitcher in MLB history. He tied an American League record by recording nine consecutive outs via strikeouts, and his 10 punchouts were the most by a reliever since Randy Johnson whiffed 16 as a member of the Diamondbacks in July 2001. Heading into the weekend, Alexander had been hopeful to get a look in the Detroit rotation, and he may finally get his wish after this dazzling outing.
Jul 28 2020Alexander (1-0) pitched two scoreless innings of relief and picked up the win Tuesday against the Royals. He allowed two hits and struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander is no longer being considered for a piggyback tandem with Michael Fulmer, but that didn't stop the lefty from securing the win as the second pitcher of the game Tuesday for the Tigers. Despite working in a more traditional bullpen role, Alexander should still be able to give Detroit multiple innings of relief when he pitches, which should allow him to vulture a few wins here and there the rest of the season.
Jul 27 2020Tigers manager Ron Gardenhire said Sunday that he expects Alexander to fill a more traditional bullpen role this season, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: During summer camp, Gardenhire floated the possibility of using Alexander and Michael Fulmer as part of a piggyback tandem for the fourth spot in the rotation while the latter eases back from March 2019 Tommy John surgery, but that plan has seemingly been scrapped. Alexander worked 1.2 innings (22 pitches) in Saturday's 6-4 win over the Reds, and while he should be available Monday when Fulmer serves as the Tigers' opening pitcher against the Royals, the lefty likely won't be tasked with the bulk-relief role. Instead, Beau Burrows and Kyle Funkhouser may be better candidates to handle the majority of the innings behind Fulmer.
Jul 13 2020Alexander could start the season working in a tandem with Michael Fulmer, who would serve as the team's opener, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Nothing is set in stone at this point, but manager Ron Gardenhire did mention the idea of using Fulmer as an opener in his first year back from Tommy John surgery. The lefty Alexander can work multiple innings and would make a natural choice to pair with the righty Fulmer. Alexander made 13 appearances (eight starts) for the Tigers in 2019 and turned in a 4.86 ERA and 1.40 WHIP across 53.2 innings.
Jul 12 2020Alexander could fill the Tigers' fifth rotation spot with Daniel Norris on the COVID-19 injured list and likely to miss the start of the season, Anthony Fenech of the Detroit Free Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Norris away from the team, the Tigers have an open rotation spot, at least temporarily. Michael Fulmer (elbow) seems poised to start games at some point, though the club could ease him into action in a relief role out of the gates with the righty returning from a lengthy absence due to Tommy John surgery. Shao-Ching Chiang is another option after making 26 starts for Triple-A Columbus last season. If Alexander is able to join the rotation, it will likely be a brief stay, especially with prospects Casey Mize and Matt Manning in the wings as well. Alexander figures to spend most of 2020 in more of a long-relief role, limiting his fantasy appeal.
Feb 27 2020Alexander is competing for one of the Tigers' final bullpen spots to begin the season, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander is battling fellow lefties Nick Ramirez and Hector Santiago for a role. The former turned in a 4.86 ERA and 1.40 WHIP across 53.2 innings last year for the Tigers, working primarily as a starter. His ability to start when needed could help him earn the spot, though he could also begin the season with Triple-A Toledo as rotation depth.
Sep 28 2019Alexander pitched five innings of two-run ball and took a no-decision in the second game of Saturday's doubleheader against the White Sox. He allowed seven hits and two walks, while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was probably lucky to only give up two runs with all the traffic on the bases, but he limited the damage by allowing just one extra-base hit. The lefty finishes his season with a 4.86 ERA and 47 strikeouts across 53.2 innings at the big-league level. After splitting the year between Triple-A and the majors, Alexander will head into 2020 as rotation depth for the Tigers who once again could find himself shuttling back and forth between Toledo and Detroit.
Sep 27 2019Alexander will start Game 2 of Saturday's doubleheader against the White Sox, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was initially slated to toe the rubber for Friday's nightcap, but both games were ultimately postponed due to rain. As a result, his final outing of the year will come Saturday evening.
Sep 22 2019Alexander allowed three runs on 10 hits with zero walks and four strikeouts across 4.1 innings while taking a loss against the White Sox on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was the second time this season Alexander yielded 10 hits in an outing. While he's had excellent control, opponents are combating that by hitting .298 against him. As a result, Alexander has a 4.99 ERA, 1.36 WHIP and 43 strikeouts in 48.2 innings this season. Alexander will face the White Sox again on the road in his last start of the year Friday.
Sep 18 2019Manager Ron Gardenhire said Tuesday that Alexander will remain in the Tigers' rotation for the rest of the season, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. "Tyler's earned this," Gardenhire said. "That's why he stays around." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old received the permanent appointment to the rotation after limiting the Orioles to one on run on four hits in six innings Monday en route to securing his first big-league win. Detroit cleared a spot for Alexander as its new fifth starter by shuttling the struggling Edwin Jackson to the bullpen. Alexander tentatively lines up for his next start Saturday against the White Sox and a final turn next week in a rematch with Chicago on the road.
Sep 16 2019Alexander (1-3) allowed one run on four hits over six innings Monday, striking out three batters and earning the win over Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander rolled through five scoreless frames before allowing a solo shot to Trey Mancini in the sixth. Still, he earned his first big-league win after starting 0-3. The rookie left-hander owns a terrific 39:5 K:BB despite his 4.87 ERA. Alexander should continue primarily working out of the bullpen or making spot starts down the stretch.
Sep 12 2019Alexander will get a spot start Monday against the Orioles, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Wednesday's game getting postponed, the Tigers have a doubleheader Thursday, which forces them to use a sixth starter next week. Alexander threw four innings in Tuesday's game, so it's possible he could go deep enough to qualify for a win. He has a 5.13 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and 24 strikeouts in 26.1 innings as a starter.
Sep 7 2019Alexander pitched three scoreless innings in Friday's 5-4 win over the Athletics. He allowed just one hit and struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexander was called up from Triple-A Toledo on Monday, and he looked sharp in his first MLB appearance since Aug. 21. The 25-year-old lefty still has a high 5.50 ERA, though the 42-98 Tigers can afford to see if their young players can work past some struggles and show signs of improvement before the 2020 season.
Sep 2 2019Alexander was recalled by the Tigers on Monday, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports.
Aug 22 2019Alexander was optioned to Triple-A Toledo following Thursday's game against Houston, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports.
Aug 21 2019Manager Ron Gardenhire plans to use Alexander as a "piggyback" reliever behind starter Daniel Norris in Wednesday's game against the Astros, Chris McCosky of The Detroit
Aug 20 2019Alexander was recalled from Triple-A Toledo on Tuesday.
Aug 16 2019Alexander was optioned to Triple-A Toledo following Friday's game against the Rays.
Aug 10 2019Alexander will pitch out of the bullpen rather than as a starter, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports.
Aug 7 2019Alexander (0-3) allowed five runs (four earned) on nine hits and a walk while striking out six across 4.1 innings to take the loss Wednesday against the White Sox.
Aug 3 2019Alexander (0-2) took the loss Friday, giving up four runs on 10 hits over 5.2 innings while striking out four as the Tigers were downed 5-4 by the Rangers.
Jul 27 2019Alexander will start Saturday's game against the Mariners.
Jul 27 2019Alexander will start<\/a> Saturday's game against the Mariners.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 21 2019Alexander was recalled from Triple-A Toledo<\/a> ahead of his start Sunday against the Blue Jays.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 21 2019Alexander gave up one run on three hits and one walk while striking out one through seven innings in a no-decision against the Blue Jays on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 3 2019The Tigers selected Alexander's contract<\/a> from Triple-A Toledo ahead of his scheduled start for the nightcap of Wednesday's doubleheader with the White Sox.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 3 2019Alexander was optioned<\/a> to Triple-A Toledo after starting Game 2 of Wednesday's doubleheader against the White Sox. He allowed two runs on five hits and zero walks over five innings and had four strikeouts, but he did not factor in the decision.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 2 2019Alexander will have his contract selected from Triple-A Toledo by the Tigers to start Game 2 of Wednesday's doubleheader against the White Sox, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 1 2018Alexander was promoted to Triple-A Toledo on Friday, Emily Waldon of The Athletic Detroit reports.Alexander -- a 2015 second-round pick -- has been at Double-A Erie since the end of the 2016 season, and has a 3.75 ERA and 1.52 WHIP with 35 strikeouts and nine walks over 48 innings for the SeaWolves this season. The 23-year-old has allowed seven home runs and a .325 opponent batting average, but will nonetheless head to the Triple-A level for the first time in his career.