Tigers introduce new pitcher Jordan Zimmermann

The Detroit Tigers are introducing new pitcher Jordan Zimmerman Monday.

Zimmermann agreed to a five-year deal for about $110 million and was to be introduced to the media at a press conference at 4:30 p.m.

Last year he went 13-10 with a 3.66 ERA in 33 starts for the Washington Nationals, in over 200 innings.

In 2013, he shared the National League lead with 19 wins in 2013 while going 33-14 during a two-year stretch.

The signing marks new General Manager Al Avila's first big acquisition since taking the job after the firing of Dave Dombrowski late last season. 

Avila said that Zimmermann was the team's top target this winter.

"I don't know if it's rare or not, but (Zimmermann) was the top choice by our scouts and our analytic department," Avila said, adding that owner Mike Ilitch "made it happen."

Zimmermann thanked Mile Ilitch and said that other teams viewed him as second or third free agent option.

He said that he knew where he thought his value was at and thanked the Tigers for the opportunity.

"I'm going to go out there and compete and give my team the chance to win every day," Zimmermann said. "I'm excited to get this jersey on opening day and play some meaningful games.

"It's a big ballpark and I know that's going to help me out. Last year was one of those years where the fly ball went out. I try to put it in play let the defense play behind me."

Avila said what also helped the deal was that Zimmermann wanted to play in Detroit.

"We got our guy," Avila said. 

Ilitch said that he didn't fire Dombrowski, that he viewed it as his contract with the team ending.

The Tigers owner also said that just getting to the World Series and not winning is "getting old."

"I want to win," Ilitch said. "I don't care about the money, I want the best players."