"How the Tigers pulled off that Great Bullpen Robbery last season could someday be grist for a suspenseful book or movie.

Talent obviously explained most of the Tigers wizardry. Jose Valverde went 49 for 49 in save situations and Joaquin Benoit was pretty much automatic after a rough April.

But there also were dips along the way. Ryan Perry was erratic, Al Alburquerque occasionally was ailing, Daniel Schlereth got behind too many hitters, and Phil Coke was in and out after resuming life as a reliever following a stint as a starter.

It has left the Tigers hunting for one more seasoned reliever, preferably one who can help stabilize the seventh, which was a source for some of last season's late-innings thrills and chills.

Nothing appeared to be brewing Tuesday as the Tigers slogged through a second slow day at the Winter Meetings.

"We've talked plenty, but right now there's a lull period," said Dave Dombrowski, president and general manager of the Tigers. "I'm not really sure why.""