Detroit Tigers vs. New York Yankees - April 20, 2015

Detroit Tigers reliever Joba Chamberlain (44) delivers a pitch in the eighth inning against the New York Yankees at Comerica Park in Detroit on April 20.

(Mike Mulholland | MLive.com)

DETROIT -- Joba Chamberlain is out. So, too, is Tom Gorzelanny.

On the heels of a series-sweeping loss, the Detroit Tigers shook up their bullpen Friday by replacing a pair of struggling veteran relievers with two promising ones.

Both Chamberlain and Gorzelanny have been designated for assignment in order to clear room for pitching prospects Jeff Ferrell and Drew VerHagen, the Tigers confirmed Friday. Ferrell and VerHagen will be available for Detroit's series opener.

"We just felt at this time, we're going to make a change," Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski said. "For no particular reason other than we think we need to make some changes to maybe improve the efficiency in the area."

The moves aren't entirely unexpected, given the state of the Tigers' bullpen. Entering Friday, Detroit's bullpen ranked 22nd in the majors with a 3.82 ERA. Both Chamberlain and Gorzelanny have largely contributed to the problem.

"I think we still have a chance to have a real good season, but we need to turn it around and start playing that way," Dombrowski said. "There's a lot of good things with the team, and there have been some things that haven't been quite as good."

The Tigers have 10 days to trade, waive or release both relievers. Unless they find a taker, which is highly unlikely, the Tigers will be responsible for the remainder of salaries this season for both Chamberlain and Gorzelanny.

The Tigers signed Gorzelanny, 32, to a one-year, $1 million in early January. He posted a 6.37 ERA with a 1.96 WHIP in 30 appearances this season.

Chamberlain, who went 2-5 with a 3.57 ERA last year, returned to Detroit after signing a contract with the Tigers for $1 million plus incentives in late February.

"Quite frankly, he was good to have around," Ausmus said. "But sometimes, changes have to be made."

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