Are the Tigers in on Joel Hanrahan?

Two weeks ago Joel Hanrahan held a workout session at the University of Tampa. It was reported that as many as 20 teams had scouts in attendance to watch the former All-Star throw. Among them, the Detroit Tigers.

Today, Jon Heyman reports that the Tigers, Yankees, Red Sox, Rangers and Rockies are believed to be the teams showing the most significant interest in his services. According to Heyman, he has received at least five legitimate offers at this point.

Still just 32, Hanrahan is a former All-Star closer who saved 76 games for the Pittsburgh Pirates during the 2011 and 2012 seasons. He was then traded to the Boston Red Sox in December of 2012 but was only able to appear in nine games before having his season cut short by injury. The reason for his workout was, in part, to prove that he has recovered from Tommy John surgery last May.

During the session two weeks ago, Hanrahan was reported to have thrown the ball in the 87 to 93 mph range. It was also reported that he was in very good shape.

Although he has been a closer -- and a pretty damn good one -- in recent years, Hanrahan would most likely occupy the set-up role were he to land in Detroit. After the injury to Bruce Rondon, the Tigers have been using a set-up by committee. Tigers manager Brad Ausmus may decide that he has more effective alternatives for the eighth inning, but at the very least he would be another option late in games. He could also spell Joe Nathan for an occasional save if needed.

Hanrahan has a lifetime ERA of 3.85 and a lifetime WHIP of 1.401.