The last game the Tigers played was one for the ages. It was a rare “163rd” game to determine the winner of the American League Central Division. The Tigers faltered much of the second half, but it took until the last day for the Minnesota Twins to move into a tie for 1st place and force that 163rd game. Even though the Tigers lost, it was the best game of the post season.
Since then, the Tigers are minus a few players, but have added replacements to fill in those spots. I like all the moves the Tigers have made. I think they have undoubtedly improved their team over last year. But, the best moves might not be moves at all. They have had a lot of players with injuries that haven’t been producing. Here’s a look at some of the key points:
The Tigers are without Edwin Jackson. He had a great first half, but faltered in the second half. So, who will replace Jackson in the #2 spot? Most likely, Rick Porcello will become the #2. However, early reports out of Spring Training have Jeremy Bonderman significantly better than last year (when he was plagued with shoulder problems). The Tigers also received a RH-SP named Max Scherzer. He won 11 games with the D-Backs last year. And remember, they also have Nate Robertson, Armando Gallaraga – one of which should be a solid pitcher at the back of the rotation. Maybe this is the year that Dontrelle Willis will return.
The Tigers were hit hardest in the bullpen. Gone are both Fernando Rodney and Brandon Lyon. Rodney’s departure is bittersweet. Although his stats were good, he wasn’t as effective as the numbers indicate. It was unfortunate that Lyon left, but that was a combination of two things. First, he was bound to make more money than the Tigers were willing to pay. Second, it must have been a little upsetting to him to be the better closer, but to play behind Rodney.
Looking at middle relief, they have a solid middle reliever – possibly the best in baseball – returning in Fu Te Ni. It is possible that he could challenge for a position in the starting rotation, but he will most likely start the season as a middle reliever. Zach Miner was also fairly effective as a middle reliever.
The Tigers have been using a platoon to close out ball games. In the past, it was Zumaya – Rodney, followed by Lyon – Rodney, and now it may end up being Perry – Valverde. Valverde was picked up via free agency. He is a quality closer, and should do just fine in that role for the Tigers. Although I am not optimistic, Joel Zumaya could also fight for the role of closer.
As far as hitters go, nobody will fill in for the departed Placido Polanco. His defense and timely hitting will surely be missed. The Tigers do have a young stud named Scott Sizemore. It is possible that he will make up for some of the missed production by supplying the long ball, something Polanco did not really have in his arsenal. Going in to Spring Training, Sizemore is the guy that will likely replace Polanco.
The Tigers are without Granderson. However, they picked up a young stud named Austin Jackson to take over for him in CF. Plus, they also have Johnny Damon. They seem to have gotten twice as better as Granderson. The Tigers also have Magglio Ordonez, who reported to Spring Training in the best shape of his life. He is said to be quicker and more powerful. Hopefully, this means that we will see the Maggs of old.
Around the infield, Miguel Cabrera spent much of the offseason in rehab. Assuming that he won’t be playing with hangovers anymore, maybe we will see him have the best season of his career – which could be Pujols-like.
The Everett-Santiago platoon at shortstop is back, as is Brandon Inge at 3rd. Remember, Inge had a great start last season (even voted in to the All-Star Game) before a nagging knee injury slowed him down during the second half. He is said to have recovered from this injury and could become a contributor to the Tiger’s offense.
Behind the dish, it looks like no changes are in store. Gerald Laird will be the regular catcher, and will be backed up by Alex Avilla. The good thing about Laird is that he literally shuts down opponent’s running game. The bad thing is he is an anemic hitter. Avilla has shown some promise, but is not likely to be a substantially better hitter than Laird, which means they will choose Laird for his defense.
This season looks like it could be a very good one. I am very optimistic. We’ll see how everything plays out over Spring Training – it looks as if the Tigers will be a solid contender for the ALCD.
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