***Officialish Detroit Tigers Thread*** (1 Viewer)

[whoknew]

CrInge 0-3 today plunging his grapefruit avg to .184 The choice is clear I think for the Tigs.

Now at .171 after another 0-3 day.

What are the odds that they release Inge before camp breaks? With Don Kelly the backup at third and a Rayburn-Santiago platoon there is no reason to keep him on the roster. The way Raburn has been raking it would be tough to keep him on the bench.

Good points. They've got Kelly's glove and a couple of solid bats ...no need for Inge.

The Tigers have been pretty good under Dombrowski and Leyland of favoring performance over established vets. They've really had no problem releasing people or sending them to the minors. So I'd be surprised if Inge went north with the Tigers. How do you look at the rest of the team and tell them that Inge earned a spot over Danny Worth? I doubt the Tigers will do that.

 

[skillz]

CrInge 0-3 today plunging his grapefruit avg to .184 The choice is clear I think for the Tigs.

Now at .171 after another 0-3 day.

What are the odds that they release Inge before camp breaks? With Don Kelly the backup at third and a Rayburn-Santiago platoon there is no reason to keep him on the roster. The way Raburn has been raking it would be tough to keep him on the bench.

Good points. They've got Kelly's glove and a couple of solid bats ...no need for Inge.

The Tigers have been pretty good under Dombrowski and Leyland of favoring performance over established vets. They've really had no problem releasing people or sending them to the minors. So I'd be surprised if Inge went north with the Tigers. How do you look at the rest of the team and tell them that Inge earned a spot over Danny Worth? I doubt the Tigers will do that.

Plus Leyland said that at the start of Spring Inge has to hit in order to get playing time. If he can't hit, he doesn't belong on the roster given the other players we have.

 

[Anthony Borbely]

CrInge 0-3 today plunging his grapefruit avg to .184 The choice is clear I think for the Tigs.

Now at .171 after another 0-3 day.

Make that .159 after an 0-2 day.

 

[Apple Juice]

Am I crazy for being a Worth fan? I don't know all the numbers on the guy but I love his glove and it feels like whenever I watch him hit he finds ways to get it done. I'd be very happy with him as one of the utility guys and feel good with him anywhere in the infield.

Inge won't be on the roster. He's done.

 

[Da Guru]

Am I crazy for being a Worth fan? I don't know all the numbers on the guy but I love his glove and it feels like whenever I watch him hit he finds ways to get it done. I'd be very happy with him as one of the utility guys and feel good with him anywhere in the infield. Inge won't be on the roster. He's done.

They pinch hit for Inge today with the game on the line..and he was the DH. I think he will not make the final cut. Much rather have Worth on the squad.

 

[Doctor Detroit]

Am I crazy for being a Worth fan? I don't know all the numbers on the guy but I love his glove and it feels like whenever I watch him hit he finds ways to get it done. I'd be very happy with him as one of the utility guys and feel good with him anywhere in the infield. Inge won't be on the roster. He's done.

I think Worth is solid.

 

[tri-man 47]

Am I crazy for being a Worth fan? I don't know all the numbers on the guy but I love his glove and it feels like whenever I watch him hit he finds ways to get it done. I'd be very happy with him as one of the utility guys and feel good with him anywhere in the infield. Inge won't be on the roster. He's done.

I think Worth is solid.

I was reading an interesting article (ESPN Fantasy Baseball) on how age 27 is quite the 'sweet spot' for players.Worth turns 27 in the fall. Inge turns 35 this spring.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

[i was reading an interesting article (ESPN Fantasy Baseball) on how age 27 is quite the 'sweet spot' for players.

Worth turns 27 in the fall.

Works out a lot better for ballplayers than musicians.

 

[Da Guru]

Am I crazy for being a Worth fan? I don't know all the numbers on the guy but I love his glove and it feels like whenever I watch him hit he finds ways to get it done. I'd be very happy with him as one of the utility guys and feel good with him anywhere in the infield. Inge won't be on the roster. He's done.

I think Worth is solid.

I was reading an interesting article (ESPN Fantasy Baseball) on how age 27 is quite the 'sweet spot' for players.Worth turns 27 in the fall. Inge turns 35 this spring.

Inge is still going to collect 5.5 million this year regardless of if he makes the team or not. Inge has made more money from the Tigers than he would have with any other MLB team. Not bad for a journeyman.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Miguel Cabrera (eye) was cleared to return to action Tuesday after an examination by team doctors.Cabrera made a quick and seamless recovery from a small fracture under his right eye and should be back near 100 percent health by Opening Day. The 28-year-old slugger is expected to participate in conditioning drills Tuesday and is likely to return to Grapefruit League play by the end of this week. He was 13-for-30 (.433) with three doubles and a homer before the injury.

Question for anyone in the know. We're headed to Florida this weekend for spring break. Already have tickets for the last ST game against Toronto, at Toronto's park. What are the chances we're going to see a minor league roster on April 3rd, the last day of ST before they head north?Before buying the tickets I checked last year's final ST game and every starter was in the lineup and batted at least 3 times.

 

[skillz]

Miguel Cabrera (eye) was cleared to return to action Tuesday after an examination by team doctors.Cabrera made a quick and seamless recovery from a small fracture under his right eye and should be back near 100 percent health by Opening Day. The 28-year-old slugger is expected to participate in conditioning drills Tuesday and is likely to return to Grapefruit League play by the end of this week. He was 13-for-30 (.433) with three doubles and a homer before the injury.

Question for anyone in the know. We're headed to Florida this weekend for spring break. Already have tickets for the last ST game against Toronto, at Toronto's park. What are the chances we're going to see a minor league roster on April 3rd, the last day of ST before they head north?Before buying the tickets I checked last year's final ST game and every starter was in the lineup and batted at least 3 times.

I don't see why there would be a minor league roster for that game. The minor leaguers are in their own camp at that point and playing their own ST games. I'd think the Tigers would use that as a final tuneup for the regular season.

 

[skillz]

Am I crazy for being a Worth fan? I don't know all the numbers on the guy but I love his glove and it feels like whenever I watch him hit he finds ways to get it done. I'd be very happy with him as one of the utility guys and feel good with him anywhere in the infield. Inge won't be on the roster. He's done.

I think Worth is solid.

He's decent, nothing special. If he is on the roster that's great, if not, it wouldn't bother me.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Miguel Cabrera (eye) was cleared to return to action Tuesday after an examination by team doctors.Cabrera made a quick and seamless recovery from a small fracture under his right eye and should be back near 100 percent health by Opening Day. The 28-year-old slugger is expected to participate in conditioning drills Tuesday and is likely to return to Grapefruit League play by the end of this week. He was 13-for-30 (.433) with three doubles and a homer before the injury.

Question for anyone in the know. We're headed to Florida this weekend for spring break. Already have tickets for the last ST game against Toronto, at Toronto's park. What are the chances we're going to see a minor league roster on April 3rd, the last day of ST before they head north?Before buying the tickets I checked last year's final ST game and every starter was in the lineup and batted at least 3 times.

I don't see why there would be a minor league roster for that game. The minor leaguers are in their own camp at that point and playing their own ST games. I'd think the Tigers would use that as a final tuneup for the regular season.

Music to my ears. I was surprised to get front row, Detroit side, between the plate and the dugout for only $27.00 apiece. I guess there aren't that many Blue Jay fans in Dunedin, FL.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Brandon Inge's destiny is down to final out

By Lynn Henning

Brandon Inge contends his swing is where he wants it despite his .174 average during camp. By next Tuesday — and perhaps as early as Sunday — Brandon Inge's immediate life with the Tigers will be resolved.

He could yet make the team, although in the face of manager Jim Leyland's pre-camp decree that Inge "has got to hit," a .174 average, one home run and two doubles in 46 at-bats, is no way to lock up a roster spot.

He would need also to show he would be a better roster choice than Danny Worth, who can play shortstop, as well as the other infield spots, and who is hitting .313 with five doubles and one homer in 32 at-bats.

"I don't care what my average is, my swing is kind of right where I want it to be," he said after he had three at-bats Tuesday — a hard single up the middle, a ground-out to shortstop, and a walk. "As opposed to last year, when my timing was perfect but I couldn't hit the ball out, my strength is there. I've hit a lot better than my average. I've hit a lot of balls hard and right at somebody."

Leyland and Dombrowski agree.

"He's hit a lot of balls on the button," Leyland said. "He's running better and swinging the bat better, and he has nothing to show for it. He hasn't been swinging the bat like a .175 or .200 hitter."

Said Dombrowski: "He's swinging the bat better than his numbers indicate. He just hasn't hit with much luck."

Asked about Inge's situation when the need for offense had been expressed, Dombrowski said, "I'm not gonna say much" about roster spots that were days from being determined.

Inge believes another comeback is in the cards. If not, there will be no return to the minors.

"I doubt it," he said. "I did that once. I try not to be one-sided about things. I felt like I owed that to them (Tigers) last year. We've had a great relationship. And I'm sure this is tough for them, too. They can't determine anything off of spring training, and yet they're gonna have to.

"But one thing I've made clear is that I don't make decisions off one bad year. I'm kind of tired of selling myself short. And I know I'm a lot better hitter than other guys out there."

 

[Da Guru]

Am I crazy for being a Worth fan? I don't know all the numbers on the guy but I love his glove and it feels like whenever I watch him hit he finds ways to get it done. I'd be very happy with him as one of the utility guys and feel good with him anywhere in the infield. Inge won't be on the roster. He's done.

I think Worth is solid.

He's decent, nothing special. If he is on the roster that's great, if not, it wouldn't bother me.

I would rather roll with Worth than Inge, we already know that Ingle at 35 does not have any upside. Worth will bring a little more speed to the team as well.

 

[tri-man 47]

I would rather roll with Worth than Inge, we already know that Ingle at 35 does not have any upside. Worth will bring a little more speed to the team as well.

They've got to go with Worth over Inge. Inge's peak years for average were 2004-06 (.287, .261, .253) when he was 27-29 years old. He'll be 35 this season, as mentioned before, and his average has been in decline since those three years. There is no logical reason to expect a reversal over the past five years of decline. He's only a couple of years removed from a 170+ strike-out season.

 

[Doctor Detroit]

Brandon Inge's destiny is down to final out

"But one thing I've made clear is that I don't make decisions off one bad year. I'm kind of tired of selling myself short. And I know I'm a lot better hitter than other guys out there."

I'm actually starting to dislike Inge. Time to go guy,

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Tigers' Drew Smyly impresses Leyland against 'good test' from Cardinals

By Tom Gage

Jupiter, Fla. There were times Wednesday that rookie left-hander Drew Smyly looked liked he was ready for the majors.

Such as when he retired eight of the first nine batters he faced.

And there were times he didn't such as when he walked Cardinals starting pitcher Adam Wainwright, which led to a pair of runs in the third.

But overall, allowing three runs on three hits in 4.2 innings, he did himself no harm against a lineup that manager Jim Leyland called "a real good test."

Results-wise, it was a lot better than Andy Oliver's wobbly start Tuesday against the Houston Astros, but Leyland said the decision to name a fifth starter won't be based entirely on performance.

Smyly is a pitcher he's grown to like, though.

"I didn't know him," Leyland said, "but whether he makes the team or not, he's made a wonderful impression."

 

[Doctor Detroit]

Listening to local radio this morning they were talking about the 5th starter this season. Specifically they were going on about Turner and how it seems like he's having trouble locating this spring. I know it's just ST and pitchers probably aren't throwing much breaking stuff but location is pretty important.

It wouldn't surprise me to see Duane Below win that job.

Smyly

This.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

News:

Lakeland, Fla. — Are the Tigers close to making a trade?

They've been acting and sounding like it the last two days.

What it would be is only speculation at this point, but Brandon Inge to the Phillies has been part of that speculation.

Among the reasons a deal could be in the works are the uncertain lineup vibes emanating from manager Jim Leyland.

On Wednesday in Jupiter, he said he can't write down his starting lineup until he knows it — and that there are three different ways he could go with it.

Why wouldn't he know it by now?

It's not Miguel Cabrera's availability Leyland is uncertain about — because he said in the same discussion that he would be "totally shocked" if Cabrera isn't available for the April 5 opener against Boston. Out the last two days with a sore left knee, Delmon Young's status isn't questionable, either

The lineup uncertainty also doesn't have anything to do with not knowing who the Red Sox are going to start in the opener — because the Tigers have known for some time that left-hander Jon Lester is going to start for the Sox

So they can plan on a lineup loaded with right-handed hitters — not one involving the either/or decision that surrounds the question of whether Andy Dirks or Clete Thomas, both left-handed hitters, will make the team.

Upon arrival at the stadium in Jupiter on Wednesday, general manager Dave Dombrowski immediately sat down at the end of the Tigers' dugout with Leyland — the way they often do at this time of spring training when they are discussing confidential matters involving players — and/or trades.

They certainly weren't talking about the long drive down.

From an other-end-of-the-dugout looks of it, Dombrowski was updating Leyland about an important matter.

And now this: The Tigers didn't burn the midnight oil with meetings, but they're burning the mid-morning oil. Even with the Tigers' game being a 6:05 p.m. game against Washington, all the decision makers were at the clubhouse by 10 a.m. on Thursday — at least their cars were.

It's not uncommon for Leyland to arrive extremely early for a night game, of course, and it could be that Dombrowski had an early staff meeting. There's no guarantee this was a trade talk session.

But at this time of the spring training, with time winding down, and several signals that something could be in the works, it feels like something is.

 

[MAC_32]

Uncertain with the lineup --> what the hell are we going to do with spots #1 and #2?

 

[Da Guru]

News:Lakeland, Fla. — Are the Tigers close to making a trade?They've been acting and sounding like it the last two days.What it would be is only speculation at this point, but Brandon Inge to the Phillies has been part of that speculation.Among the reasons a deal could be in the works are the uncertain lineup vibes emanating from manager Jim Leyland.On Wednesday in Jupiter, he said he can't write down his starting lineup until he knows it — and that there are three different ways he could go with it.Why wouldn't he know it by now?It's not Miguel Cabrera's availability Leyland is uncertain about — because he said in the same discussion that he would be "totally shocked" if Cabrera isn't available for the April 5 opener against Boston. Out the last two days with a sore left knee, Delmon Young's status isn't questionable, eitherThe lineup uncertainty also doesn't have anything to do with not knowing who the Red Sox are going to start in the opener — because the Tigers have known for some time that left-hander Jon Lester is going to start for the SoxSo they can plan on a lineup loaded with right-handed hitters — not one involving the either/or decision that surrounds the question of whether Andy Dirks or Clete Thomas, both left-handed hitters, will make the team.Upon arrival at the stadium in Jupiter on Wednesday, general manager Dave Dombrowski immediately sat down at the end of the Tigers' dugout with Leyland — the way they often do at this time of spring training when they are discussing confidential matters involving players — and/or trades.They certainly weren't talking about the long drive down.From an other-end-of-the-dugout looks of it, Dombrowski was updating Leyland about an important matter.And now this: The Tigers didn't burn the midnight oil with meetings, but they're burning the mid-morning oil. Even with the Tigers' game being a 6:05 p.m. game against Washington, all the decision makers were at the clubhouse by 10 a.m. on Thursday — at least their cars were.It's not uncommon for Leyland to arrive extremely early for a night game, of course, and it could be that Dombrowski had an early staff meeting. There's no guarantee this was a trade talk session.But at this time of the spring training, with time winding down, and several signals that something could be in the works, it feels like something is.

It would not suprise me, but really what can Inge bring? A mid-level rookie league prospect? It would have to be Ingge and a good prospect to get a MLB ready player.

 

[MAC_32]

News:Lakeland, Fla. — Are the Tigers close to making a trade?They've been acting and sounding like it the last two days.What it would be is only speculation at this point, but Brandon Inge to the Phillies has been part of that speculation.Among the reasons a deal could be in the works are the uncertain lineup vibes emanating from manager Jim Leyland.On Wednesday in Jupiter, he said he can't write down his starting lineup until he knows it — and that there are three different ways he could go with it.Why wouldn't he know it by now?It's not Miguel Cabrera's availability Leyland is uncertain about — because he said in the same discussion that he would be "totally shocked" if Cabrera isn't available for the April 5 opener against Boston. Out the last two days with a sore left knee, Delmon Young's status isn't questionable, eitherThe lineup uncertainty also doesn't have anything to do with not knowing who the Red Sox are going to start in the opener — because the Tigers have known for some time that left-hander Jon Lester is going to start for the SoxSo they can plan on a lineup loaded with right-handed hitters — not one involving the either/or decision that surrounds the question of whether Andy Dirks or Clete Thomas, both left-handed hitters, will make the team.Upon arrival at the stadium in Jupiter on Wednesday, general manager Dave Dombrowski immediately sat down at the end of the Tigers' dugout with Leyland — the way they often do at this time of spring training when they are discussing confidential matters involving players — and/or trades.They certainly weren't talking about the long drive down.From an other-end-of-the-dugout looks of it, Dombrowski was updating Leyland about an important matter.And now this: The Tigers didn't burn the midnight oil with meetings, but they're burning the mid-morning oil. Even with the Tigers' game being a 6:05 p.m. game against Washington, all the decision makers were at the clubhouse by 10 a.m. on Thursday — at least their cars were.It's not uncommon for Leyland to arrive extremely early for a night game, of course, and it could be that Dombrowski had an early staff meeting. There's no guarantee this was a trade talk session.But at this time of the spring training, with time winding down, and several signals that something could be in the works, it feels like something is.

It would not suprise me, but really what can Inge bring? A mid-level rookie league prospect? It would have to be Ingge and a good prospect to get a MLB ready player.

It'd be a cash saving move. And a smart one.

 

[Doctor Detroit]

News:Lakeland, Fla. — Are the Tigers close to making a trade?They've been acting and sounding like it the last two days.What it would be is only speculation at this point, but Brandon Inge to the Phillies has been part of that speculation.Among the reasons a deal could be in the works are the uncertain lineup vibes emanating from manager Jim Leyland.On Wednesday in Jupiter, he said he can't write down his starting lineup until he knows it — and that there are three different ways he could go with it.Why wouldn't he know it by now?It's not Miguel Cabrera's availability Leyland is uncertain about — because he said in the same discussion that he would be "totally shocked" if Cabrera isn't available for the April 5 opener against Boston. Out the last two days with a sore left knee, Delmon Young's status isn't questionable, eitherThe lineup uncertainty also doesn't have anything to do with not knowing who the Red Sox are going to start in the opener — because the Tigers have known for some time that left-hander Jon Lester is going to start for the SoxSo they can plan on a lineup loaded with right-handed hitters — not one involving the either/or decision that surrounds the question of whether Andy Dirks or Clete Thomas, both left-handed hitters, will make the team.Upon arrival at the stadium in Jupiter on Wednesday, general manager Dave Dombrowski immediately sat down at the end of the Tigers' dugout with Leyland — the way they often do at this time of spring training when they are discussing confidential matters involving players — and/or trades.They certainly weren't talking about the long drive down.From an other-end-of-the-dugout looks of it, Dombrowski was updating Leyland about an important matter.And now this: The Tigers didn't burn the midnight oil with meetings, but they're burning the mid-morning oil. Even with the Tigers' game being a 6:05 p.m. game against Washington, all the decision makers were at the clubhouse by 10 a.m. on Thursday — at least their cars were.It's not uncommon for Leyland to arrive extremely early for a night game, of course, and it could be that Dombrowski had an early staff meeting. There's no guarantee this was a trade talk session.But at this time of the spring training, with time winding down, and several signals that something could be in the works, it feels like something is.

It would not suprise me, but really what can Inge bring? A mid-level rookie league prospect? It would have to be Ingge and a good prospect to get a MLB ready player.

It'd be a cash saving move. And a smart one.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

A couple of batting gloves & a box of jock straps should do it.

 

[MAC_32]

A couple of batting gloves & a box of jock straps should do it.

Wasn't there some poor sap in Canada that got traded a bag of bats and balls a couple of years ago?I'd be happy with half of that.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Listening to local radio this morning they were talking about the 5th starter this season. Specifically they were going on about Turner and how it seems like he's having trouble locating this spring. I know it's just ST and pitchers probably aren't throwing much breaking stuff but location is pretty important.

It wouldn't surprise me to see Duane Below win that job.

Smyly

This.

looks like we at least narrowed it down to the right 2 of the original 5 guys:Tigers' No. 5 spot down to Drew Smyly or Duane BelowBy Tom Gage Lakeland, Fla. The fifth starter spot on the Tigers became clearer on Thursday when they optioned left-hander Andy Oliver to Triple-A Toledo.The move leaves rookie Drew Smyly and Duane Below, both left-handers, as the head-to-head competitors for the last spot in the Tigers' rotation.Oliver had an outstanding start to camp but struggled in his last two appearances, walking five in one and getting hit hard by the Astros on Tuesday in what turned out to be his last start of the spring for the Tigers.Oliver's final spring stats: five appearances, 1-2 record, 5.17 ERA, 15.2 innings, 11 hits, nine earned runs, 10 strikeouts, 10 walks, 1.34 WHIP.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Tigers catcher Gerald Laird injured vs. Orioles

By Tom Gage

The Detroit News

Sarasota, Fla — Luckily for catcher Gerald Laird, the extent of his injury didn't match his initial reaction to it.

Laird sprained his left knee in a collision with first baseman Don Kelly and had to be helped from the field on Friday in the second inning of the Tigers-Orioles game.

He'd fallen to the ground in pain after catching the pop-up for which both players called.

With assistance, as if the situation was much more serious than it turned out, he had left the field in pain.

But a half hour later in the Tigers' clubhouse, Laird said, "I was more scared than anything. I'm just glad I didn't blow it out."

Laird said "the initial contact scared me the most. I've seen a lot of guys get hurt that way.

"But my cleat didn't get caught in the grass. That was a good thing. After a while, I began to get the feeling back in my knee and it started feeling better.

"It's all right. It feels fine. Being a catcher, I just don't want to mess with my knees. I've never had a knee injury. I'm glad it's nothing serious.

"It'll be just a couple of days instead of months. It's a little sore, but that's it."

The Tigers said that Laird's status will be "re-evaluated day-to-day."

 

[Anthony Borbely]

I hope I'm wrong, but I have a bad feeling that Inge is going to make the team.

 

[jon_mx]

I am thinking he gets cut loose. If anything, I think his attitude is going to do him in.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- By Monday, we should know whether infielder Brandon Inge will be with the Tigers for Opening Day on Thursday.If the Tigers intend to release Inge, they must let him go by Monday. That's because a player must spend two days on waivers before he can formally be released.Were the Tigers to wait until after Monday to put Inge on release waivers, he wouldn't clear waivers before the Opening Day roster must be submitted at 5 p.m. Wednesday.• Detroit Tigers Opening Day Pit StopsIf the Tigers don't keep Inge, that would make room for Danny Worth on the team as a utility infielder.Any team that claims Inge on waivers becomes responsible for his $6 million contract for this season. So it's unlikely he would be claimed.Injury updates: The injuries to Inge and catcher Gerald Laird could also affect the Opening Day roster if either has to be placed on the 15-day disabled list.Kevin Rand, the Tigers head athletic trainer, gave this update Saturday on Inge and Laird:Inge: "He is battling the groin strain (from Thursday night). He was improved today when he came in, and he is going to get treatment all day. He is day to day at this point."As for Laird, who hurt his knee Friday in a collision with first baseman Don Kelly: "He was surprisingly pretty good when he came in this morning. There was a little bit of soreness on the outside of the left knee. He is also day to day."Rand added about Laird: "It's scary any time you're a catcher and your knees get affected. But the exam was good and it seems to be going well."Delayed start: Whoever wins the fifth-starter derby could open the season by making one start in the minors in order to stay sharp. Due to open dates, the Tigers won't need the fifth starter until the 10th day of the season.If the fifth man opens in the minors, the Tigers would carry an extra reliever or position player until he is called up for his first start.Thomas out of options: Outfielder Clete Thomas is the one player on the bubble whom the Tigers just can't send back to the minors. Thomas is out of options, so if the Tigers don't keep him on the Opening Day roster, he must clear waivers in order to go to the minors. Any big-league team that claims him must also keep him in the majors or risk losing him on waivers.While Thomas is struggling to keep his average above .200 this spring, his rival for the final position spot, Andy Dirks, is hitting .404. Thomas did hit his third homer of the spring Saturday.

 

[jon_mx]

Tigers will get more national exposure this year starting with Opening Day.

 

[Gopher State]

--INF Brandon Inge's chances of making the Detroit roster might have been enhanced Friday when backup C Gerald Laird suffered a left knee sprain in the second inning of an exhibition game when he collided with 1B Don Kelly as he caught a foul popup. Inge and Kelly have been tabbed as the Tigers' emergency catchers by manager Jim Leyland. Inge lost his chance at third base when 3B Miguel Cabrera was shifted there after Detroit signed 1B Prince Fielder to replaced injured DH Victor Martinez. Inge has been playing second base this season, but his average has been below .200 and there has been speculation the Tigers might cut or trade him despite the fact it will owe him nearly $6 million for his 2012 salary and 2013 buyout. Detroit would need someone to spell C Alex Avila if Laird has to be placed on the disabled list.

Some hope for Inge

 

[whoknew]

And Smyly it is. Not too surprising.

 

[Gopher State]

It would be a surprise if Inge is released or traded while he is healing from the groin injury. The Tigers wouldn’t want to risk being accused of dealing “damaged goods.”

source detroit free press

Looking more like Inge will be a tiger

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Brandon Inge to start part-time at second for Tigers upon return

By Lynn Henning

The Detroit News

Dunedin, Fla. -- Brandon Inge's stint on the disabled list will be temporary. His place on the Tigers' roster appears to be longer-term after manager Jim Leyland said Tuesday Inge will be his starting second baseman against left-handed starters.

Ryan Raburn, he said, will start most games at second base against right-handers, with Ramon Santiago filling in at second base and at shortstop.

"I actually think Brandon Inge had a pretty decent spring," Leyland said Tuesday as the Tigers prepared for their Grapefruit League finale against the Blue Jays at Florida Auto Exchange Stadium. "He didn't hit for average, but he hit the ball pretty hard."

Inge's move to the disabled list Tuesday was necessitated by a groin strain suffered last week. His hiatus means Danny Worth is on the team for Thursday's season opener against the Red Sox at Comerica Park.

In the same fashion, Clete Thomas and Andy Dirks have each made the team because of the Tigers' decision to keep starting pitcher Drew Smyly at Triple A Toledo until at least April 12.

Thomas and Dirks had been in a bruising battle to win a final outfield spot. Smyly's brief assignment with the Mud Hens means both outfielders will be part of a roster that will carry, for now, 14 position players and 11 pitchers.

The Tigers aren't saying which players might be reassigned when Smyly returns April 12 and Inge returns April 13, if current schedules hold. The assumption is Worth will return to Toledo and that either Thomas or Dirks will be a casualty. Thomas is out of minor-league options and would face waivers or a trade if the Tigers decide to go with Dirks, who was batting .423 entering Tuesday's game. Thomas was hitting .213.

Inge's fate has been an ongoing issue during spring, in part because of his 11-year tenure in Detroit, and more directly, because Leyland's options at second base were as numerous as they were intriguing.

Leyland's lineup for Opening Day, Thursday, against Red Sox starter Jon Lester will be:

1. Austin Jackson, center field. 2. Brennan Boesch, right field. 3. Miguel Cabrera, third base. 4. Prince Fielder, first base. 5. Delmon Young, left field. 6. Raburn, designated hitter. 7. Jhonny Peralta, shortstop. 8. Alex Avila, catcher. 9. Santiago, second base.

Leyland confirmed Inge would have been his Opening Day second baseman had he not been shifted to the DL.

Although the Tigers and Leyland are saying nothing, it does not appear that contract issues carried any more weight in the decision to retain Inge than they were a factor last summer when the team was prepared to buy out the remainder of Inge's contract when he was designated for assignment.

Inge, who next month turns 35, is signed through this season at $5.5 million. He has a club option in 2013 that will pay him $500,000 if the Tigers decline the additional year.

"We made the right decision," Leyland said of the club's decision to keep Inge. "That was the smart thing to do. It was a pretty simple decision."

Inge will start about every 4th game when he returns. :(

 

[Gopher State]

Brandon Inge to start part-time at second for Tigers upon return By Lynn HenningThe Detroit News Dunedin, Fla. -- Brandon Inge's stint on the disabled list will be temporary. His place on the Tigers' roster appears to be longer-term after manager Jim Leyland said Tuesday Inge will be his starting second baseman against left-handed starters. Ryan Raburn, he said, will start most games at second base against right-handers, with Ramon Santiago filling in at second base and at shortstop. "I actually think Brandon Inge had a pretty decent spring," Leyland said Tuesday as the Tigers prepared for their Grapefruit League finale against the Blue Jays at Florida Auto Exchange Stadium. "He didn't hit for average, but he hit the ball pretty hard." Inge's move to the disabled list Tuesday was necessitated by a groin strain suffered last week. His hiatus means Danny Worth is on the team for Thursday's season opener against the Red Sox at Comerica Park. In the same fashion, Clete Thomas and Andy Dirks have each made the team because of the Tigers' decision to keep starting pitcher Drew Smyly at Triple A Toledo until at least April 12. Thomas and Dirks had been in a bruising battle to win a final outfield spot. Smyly's brief assignment with the Mud Hens means both outfielders will be part of a roster that will carry, for now, 14 position players and 11 pitchers. The Tigers aren't saying which players might be reassigned when Smyly returns April 12 and Inge returns April 13, if current schedules hold. The assumption is Worth will return to Toledo and that either Thomas or Dirks will be a casualty. Thomas is out of minor-league options and would face waivers or a trade if the Tigers decide to go with Dirks, who was batting .423 entering Tuesday's game. Thomas was hitting .213. Inge's fate has been an ongoing issue during spring, in part because of his 11-year tenure in Detroit, and more directly, because Leyland's options at second base were as numerous as they were intriguing. Leyland's lineup for Opening Day, Thursday, against Red Sox starter Jon Lester will be: 1. Austin Jackson, center field. 2. Brennan Boesch, right field. 3. Miguel Cabrera, third base. 4. Prince Fielder, first base. 5. Delmon Young, left field. 6. Raburn, designated hitter. 7. Jhonny Peralta, shortstop. 8. Alex Avila, catcher. 9. Santiago, second base. Leyland confirmed Inge would have been his Opening Day second baseman had he not been shifted to the DL. Although the Tigers and Leyland are saying nothing, it does not appear that contract issues carried any more weight in the decision to retain Inge than they were a factor last summer when the team was prepared to buy out the remainder of Inge's contract when he was designated for assignment. Inge, who next month turns 35, is signed through this season at $5.5 million. He has a club option in 2013 that will pay him $500,000 if the Tigers decline the additional year. "We made the right decision," Leyland said of the club's decision to keep Inge. "That was the smart thing to do. It was a pretty simple decision." Inge will start about every 4th game when he returns. :(

good to see Inge made the team

 

[Limp Ditka]

Max's outing today was just a little reminder of what his owners can expect... again.

 

[Da Guru]

Brandon Inge to start part-time at second for Tigers upon return By Lynn HenningThe Detroit News Dunedin, Fla. -- Brandon Inge's stint on the disabled list will be temporary. His place on the Tigers' roster appears to be longer-term after manager Jim Leyland said Tuesday Inge will be his starting second baseman against left-handed starters. Ryan Raburn, he said, will start most games at second base against right-handers, with Ramon Santiago filling in at second base and at shortstop. "I actually think Brandon Inge had a pretty decent spring," Leyland said Tuesday as the Tigers prepared for their Grapefruit League finale against the Blue Jays at Florida Auto Exchange Stadium. "He didn't hit for average, but he hit the ball pretty hard." Inge's move to the disabled list Tuesday was necessitated by a groin strain suffered last week. His hiatus means Danny Worth is on the team for Thursday's season opener against the Red Sox at Comerica Park. In the same fashion, Clete Thomas and Andy Dirks have each made the team because of the Tigers' decision to keep starting pitcher Drew Smyly at Triple A Toledo until at least April 12. Thomas and Dirks had been in a bruising battle to win a final outfield spot. Smyly's brief assignment with the Mud Hens means both outfielders will be part of a roster that will carry, for now, 14 position players and 11 pitchers. The Tigers aren't saying which players might be reassigned when Smyly returns April 12 and Inge returns April 13, if current schedules hold. The assumption is Worth will return to Toledo and that either Thomas or Dirks will be a casualty. Thomas is out of minor-league options and would face waivers or a trade if the Tigers decide to go with Dirks, who was batting .423 entering Tuesday's game. Thomas was hitting .213. Inge's fate has been an ongoing issue during spring, in part because of his 11-year tenure in Detroit, and more directly, because Leyland's options at second base were as numerous as they were intriguing. Leyland's lineup for Opening Day, Thursday, against Red Sox starter Jon Lester will be: 1. Austin Jackson, center field. 2. Brennan Boesch, right field. 3. Miguel Cabrera, third base. 4. Prince Fielder, first base. 5. Delmon Young, left field. 6. Raburn, designated hitter. 7. Jhonny Peralta, shortstop. 8. Alex Avila, catcher. 9. Santiago, second base. Leyland confirmed Inge would have been his Opening Day second baseman had he not been shifted to the DL. Although the Tigers and Leyland are saying nothing, it does not appear that contract issues carried any more weight in the decision to retain Inge than they were a factor last summer when the team was prepared to buy out the remainder of Inge's contract when he was designated for assignment. Inge, who next month turns 35, is signed through this season at $5.5 million. He has a club option in 2013 that will pay him $500,000 if the Tigers decline the additional year. "We made the right decision," Leyland said of the club's decision to keep Inge. "That was the smart thing to do. It was a pretty simple decision." Inge will start about every 4th game when he returns. :(

Next year I can see Ingle being the part time second baseman, and part time bench coach for Leyland.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Next year I can see Ingle being the part time second baseman, and part time bench coach for Leyland.

i like the last part better. Inge can run into the clubhouse and get Jimmy's smokes when he runs out.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

The 2002 Opening Day lineup:

Bobby Higginson, left field;

Shane Halter, shortstop;

Robert Fick, designated hitter;

Dmitri Young, first base;

Craig Paquette, third base;

Jacob Cruz, right field;

Mike Rivera, catcher;

Damion Easley, second base;

Jose Macias, center field.

It should also be noted the 2002 Tigers were 55-106.

 

[Ilov80s]

The 2002 Opening Day lineup: Bobby Higginson, left field; Shane Halter, shortstop; Robert Fick, designated hitter; Dmitri Young, first base; Craig Paquette, third base; Jacob Cruz, right field; Mike Rivera, catcher; Damion Easley, second base; Jose Macias, center field. It should also be noted the 2002 Tigers were 55-106.

Tigers are spoo much better at every position. They went from no all star caliber players to 3 potential HOFers in their prime, a sure and another 3-5 all star worthy players in the organization. It makes me quite happy thinking about how good this team can be.

 

[Doctor Detroit]

Valverde is gonna suck this year. Knew he was gonna blow this first one, ruined Verlander's day.

 

[Limp Ditka]

Valverde is gonna suck this year. Knew he was gonna blow this first one, ruined Verlander's day.

Pretty sure there's 23 other guys on that team too, pal.

 

[tri-man 47]

Valverde is gonna suck this year. Knew he was gonna blow this first one, ruined Verlander's day.

Man, he ticks me off! If it had been 1-0, I wonder if they would have left Verlander in there. At 2-0, they figured they had a bit of a cushion ...but not with Valverde.

 

[MAC_32]

Valverde is gonna suck this year. Knew he was gonna blow this first one, ruined Verlander's day.

I realize it's the first start of the year, but Verlander was only at 105 pitches. When I saw Valverde warming up I cringed.

 

[Wrigley]

Valverde is gonna suck this year. Knew he was gonna blow this first one, ruined Verlander's day.

Pretty sure there's 23 other guys on that team too, pal.

?

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

WOOOOOOT!

whats funny is I said valverder will give up the lead today before it even happened.

Who cares?

1-0

 

[tri-man 47]

...and ...pick your poison: Pitch to Cabrera or to Fielder?

 

[Limp Ditka]

Valverde is gonna suck this year. Knew he was gonna blow this first one, ruined Verlander's day.

Pretty sure there's 23 other guys on that team too, pal.

?

25 man rosters... Valverde and Verlander were already accounted for.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

...and ...pick your poison: Pitch to Cabrera or to Fielder?