Anthony Fenech

Detroit Free Press

Alex Wilson was a throw-in.

And now he is getting thrown into the Tigers' bullpen mix.

Tigers president and general manager Dave Dombrowski said Thursday that Wilson, whom the Tigers acquired as one of two lesser-known parts in the trade that brought Yoenis Cespedes to the team, will compete for a bullpen role in the spring.

"We feel he has a chance to help us real soon and compete for a spot in our bullpen in spring training," Dombrowski said.

Wilson, 28, has had a mixed bag of success split over two seasons in the big leagues.

Last season, he posted a 1.91 ERA in 18 appearances. In 2013, he posted a 4.88 ERA in 26 appearances. He has struck out 41 batters in 56 total innings of major league experience.

According to Brooks Baseball, Wilson features a mid-90 m.p.h. fastball and cutter while mixing in a sinker, slider and change-up.

"Above average velocity," Dombrowski said.

His cutter, according to the website, has "extreme cut action," and his slider is a "real worm killer."

Wilson compiled a 3.82 ERA over six minor league seasons with Boston after being drafted out of Texas A&M in the second round in 2009.

He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2007.

Wilson is the second player in baseball history born in Saudi Arabia. He grew up in Hurricane, W.Va.

Contact Anthony Fenech: afenech@freepress.com.