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Jose Valverde Injury: Tigers Closer Day-To-Day With Lower Back Strain

On Wednesday afternoon, Detroit Tigers closer Jose Valverde was officially diagnosed as day-to-day with a lower back strain after leaving Tuesday's game against the Chicago White Sox with lower back tightness. Valverde is 2-1 this season with a 5.51 ERA and seven saves in nine opportunities.

According to Jason Beck, set-up man Joaquin Benoit will step in for Valverde as the team's closer unless "matchups dictate otherwise." Benoit has 11 career saves in 32 possible save opportunities.

Even with Benoit stepping into the closer's role, the Tigers still face a significant problem with who will manage the set-up position. Unless another pitcher is able to step up and fill his role, it will force the starters to pitch later into games.

For more on the Tigers, head over to Bless You Boys.