By AP
DETROIT – Jose Valverde says he has been animated on the mound since he was 17 and plans to let his emotions show for the rest of his career.
The Detroit Tigers simply hope he doesn't change how he has pitched when they open a homestand Friday night against Oakland.
His theatrics include pointing, kicking, shouting and pulsating squats.
Valverde has blown only one of 12 chances for a save this year and hasn't allowed a run in his last 19 appearances.
The Tigers signed him to a $14 million, two-year contract in January after deciding not to bring back Fernando Rodney or Brandon Lyon.
Valverde led the National League in saves in back-to-back seasons, combining for 91 with Houston and Arizona, after slipping to 25 last year with the Astros.