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

[skillz]

I also think that if the Tigers completely throw up the white flag this year and fail to field a competitive team, then their chances of re-signing Verlander significantly diminish. So I tend to believe that keeping the team competitive to keep Verlander around played into the decision as well.

 

[Doctor Detroit]

I think they have shed payroll even with the Valverde signing. They didn't re-sign Polanco, Rodney, or Lyon. They also traded Granderson and Jackson for much cheaper players. Valverde is obviously the closer, I don't think they really trust Zumaya so anything he can add in 2010 and beyond is a bonus, and Seay is probably gone since they now have Schlereth, Ni, and Coke as options. Coke could also be considered as a 5th starter and not be a bullpen pitcher. Even though they have a lot of bullpen arms they are still young and relatively unproven so why not gather a bunch of them and see which ones pan out for this year.Although the moves seem strange I think Dombrowski simply wanted to "sell high" on Jackson and Granderson and was able to replace them with cheaper options going forward to better position the team long term. I think he really feared signing Jackson to a long term deal and have it blow up in his face like the Willis, Robertson and Bonderman contracts have. Even with Jackson and Grandy gone I think he believes the team can compete in a weak AL Central in 2010 but the biggest hole he needed to fill was closer - which he was now able to fill with Valverde. The Valverde signing gives them a better chance to compete in 2010 (although the offense is still looking pretty weak with the loss of Polanco and Granderson). They then lose a lot of the dead contracts in the offseason which will presumably give them a chance to add some better players in 2011. So having Valverde for 2010 and 2011 fills a vital role in the bullpen during a two year stretch where the team should still be able to compete for a division title. I don't know why people think the Tigers should not sign any players like Valverde who will help the team win this year and instead would rather see them stay in a rebuild mode for 2010. Valverde isn't signed long term and after his deal expires in 2011 Perry should be ready to take over. I don't see a lot of risk in signing him for two years. Plus, as I have already said, we still have other 1st round picks to use so we will still be able to get some young talent early in the draft to replenish the farm system. I am sure others may disagree with me but I like the fact that DD finally went after a player and is trying to win this year.

Good perspective.

 

[MAC_32]

Interesting angle there skillz, I don't agree with it but I see where you're coming from. I'll never see to it because I've always been one that believes a true closer is not worth the price they demand, get a lot of good and cheap arms back there and figure it out. If this team was going to spend $14 mil over the next 2 years I'd have rather spent it on bats, of which we have exactly one.

 

[skillz]

Interesting angle there skillz, I don't agree with it but I see where you're coming from. I'll never see to it because I've always been one that believes a true closer is not worth the price they demand, get a lot of good and cheap arms back there and figure it out. If this team was going to spend $14 mil over the next 2 years I'd have rather spent it on bats, of which we have exactly one.

I don't know if I totally believe it either yet since I have serious questions about the offense as well, but at least the signing fills a clear need. Given the payroll constraints I think DD chose to go with a proven closer and hope that he has enough players on the roster to step up at the plate since he couldn't sign both a proven closer and more offense. In essence I think he has more confidence in some of the offensive players stepping up than one of the young relievers becoming a reliable closer. Plus, I don't think we want to rush guys like Perry, or Schlereth into a closer role when they are not ready and thereby potentially ruin their ongoing development. Might as well be patient with them so they can blossom long term. Maybe they can learn from having a veteran such as Valverde in the bullpen as well. I just wish Lloyd wasn't the hitting coach for this year. Firing him would have been a move in the right direction for the offense much like firing Hernandez and hiring Knapp was a boost for the pitching staff last year.

 

[Anthony Borbely]

Link

Report: Tigers may try to sign left-handed veteran Johnny Damon

By Scott Warheit

January 14, 2010, 7:31PM

During the Major League Baseball winter meetings, the Detroit Tigers could not shed payroll fast enough.

Just a few months later, and the Detroit Tigers seemingly are in a buying mood. Quite the turnaround for a team that couldn't afford to keep fan favorite Curtis Granderson.

But, after signing closer Jose Valverde to what could be a three-year, $23 million deal, the Tigers may look to add another veteran to their roster, according to SI.com's Jon Heyman:

January 14, SI.com: Tigers could be in play for Damon, who hits .363, slugs .550 and has a .961 OPS at pitcher-friendly Comerica Park.

The "Damon" Heyman referenced is, of course, Johnny Damon, whose tenure with the Yankees came to an end thanks to, wait for it, the arrival of Curtis Granderson.

Damon, 36, could play left field for the Tigers, shifting Carlos Guillen to designated hitter. He also is a left-handed bat in a lineup void of lefties.

He hit .282 with 24 home runs and 12 stolen bases for the Yankees last season.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

As mentioned in the Hot Stove thread and above.....Damon has a career (171 AB's) .363 ave, .550 slug, .961 OPS in Comerica Park

I'd love to see this happen except Boras is Damon's agent

 

[MAC_32]

I've been trying not to jinx it, I can deal with a fragile old guy that throws like a girl if he's got wheels, hits left handed, and has numbers the last two seasons like Damon if he's going to be cheap, and it sounds like he's going to be cheap.

Give him the same deal the Rangers gave Vlad and add some incentive clauses.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Tigers Have Not Expressed Interest In DamonBy Ben Nicholson-Smith [January 15 at 2:07pm CST]2:07pm: Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski told Beck through a team spokesperson that the Tigers have not expressed interest in Damon (Twitter link). If the Braves aren't likely to sign Damon, where will he end up?

 

[SofaKings]

I think they have shed payroll even with the Valverde signing. They didn't re-sign Polanco, Rodney, or Lyon. They also traded Granderson and Jackson for much cheaper players. Valverde is obviously the closer, I don't think they really trust Zumaya so anything he can add in 2010 and beyond is a bonus, and Seay is probably gone since they now have Schlereth, Ni, and Coke as options. Coke could also be considered as a 5th starter and not be a bullpen pitcher. Even though they have a lot of bullpen arms they are still young and relatively unproven so why not gather a bunch of them and see which ones pan out for this year.Although the moves seem strange I think Dombrowski simply wanted to "sell high" on Jackson and Granderson and was able to replace them with cheaper options going forward to better position the team long term. I think he really feared signing Jackson to a long term deal and have it blow up in his face like the Willis, Robertson and Bonderman contracts have. Even with Jackson and Grandy gone I think he believes the team can compete in a weak AL Central in 2010 but the biggest hole he needed to fill was closer - which he was now able to fill with Valverde. The Valverde signing gives them a better chance to compete in 2010 (although the offense is still looking pretty weak with the loss of Polanco and Granderson). They then lose a lot of the dead contracts in the offseason which will presumably give them a chance to add some better players in 2011. So having Valverde for 2010 and 2011 fills a vital role in the bullpen during a two year stretch where the team should still be able to compete for a division title. I don't know why people think the Tigers should not sign any players like Valverde who will help the team win this year and instead would rather see them stay in a rebuild mode for 2010. Valverde isn't signed long term and after his deal expires in 2011 Perry should be ready to take over. I don't see a lot of risk in signing him for two years. Plus, as I have already said, we still have other 1st round picks to use so we will still be able to get some young talent early in the draft to replenish the farm system. I am sure others may disagree with me but I like the fact that DD finally went after a player and is trying to win this year.

Agreed. I'll roll with that.

 

[Gopher State]

"As far as I'm concerned, he was the best closer available this year. He throws strikes, he knows his role, and he understands his job is to get people out as quick as he can. I would never have a problem with Valverde as a closer. He's basically a fastball pitcher whose ball has a lot of life at the plate. It will either bore in or rise, and he really doesn't need anything else. The split (split-finger fastball) is fine, and if he gets into a situation where he needs it, he'll use it." — Anonymous major league scout, talking to the Detroit News about RHP Jose Valverde.

 

[SofaKings]

Figure this will be where foos and dr. d post the cornhole rpt.

 

[Gopher State]

Tigers slugger Miguel Cabrera treated for alcoholism

Source AP

DETROIT (AP) — Instead of honing his swing this offseason, Miguel Cabrera (FSY) focused on getting sober.

"My drinking was a problem, and I feel good without it. I feel like a new man," he said Thursday.

The Detroit Tigers slugger spent three months in an outpatient treatment program for alcoholism following a much-publicized drinking binge during the final weekend of last season, a program that general manager Dave Dombrowski said will continue into spring training and the upcoming season.

"I've worked very hard with my doctors and my family this winter, and I'm going to keep working," Cabrera said as the Tigers started their Winter Caravan through Michigan.

Cabrera said he has turned his life around. He said he hasn't had a drink since he was taken into custody by police after a domestic-abuse complaint was filed by his wife in the early morning of Oct. 3 — hours before a crucial game against the Chicago White Sox.

The All-Star first baseman with a $152.3 million contract got drunk enough between Friday night's game and Saturday morning to have what police said was a 0.26 blood-alcohol reading — three times above Michigan's legal limit for driving — and a bruised and cut left cheek.

Cabrera said he feels as though he let down his teammates that weekend and he intends to make up for it this season. He acknowledged there have been games in the past when his performance was affected by booze.

"I never played drunk, but there were times where I was very tired or my body just felt lazy," said Cabrera, who went to a treatment program in Miami this offseason. "I don't feel that way anymore."

Last year, the Tigers were trying to hold off Minnesota and clinch the AL Central title when Cabrera created a stir on the final weekend of the season.

Police said he arrived at his suburban Detroit home at 5 a.m. on Saturday and got into a fight with his wife, who called 911. Cabrera was taken to a police station, where Dombrowski picked him up.

The GM later acknowledged being angry and sad to get a call at 7:30 a.m. to come get Cabrera.

The slugger went 0 for 4 and stranded six runners in a 5-1 loss to Chicago on Saturday night, a game that started about 12 hours after Cabrera left the police station.

"That night, I was trying to hit a five-run homer every time I came up, because I knew I had made a horrible mistake and I wanted to fix it," Cabrera said. "I was just putting too much pressure on myself."

On Friday night, he had gone 0 for 4 and left four runners on base in an 8-0 defeat against the White Sox. He went hitless in three at-bats Sunday, a 5-3 Tigers win that left them tied with the Twins for first place.

Two days later, Minnesota won a one-game tiebreaker at home for the division crown, beating Detroit 6-5 in 12 innings. Cabrera hit a two-run homer and doubled in that game to help the Tigers open a 3-0 lead, but it wasn't enough.

Before the game, he apologized to his teammates for being drunk the previous weekend.

Still, the entire ordeal overshadowed what had been a strong performance by Cabrera in the second season of an eight-year contract. He ranked among AL leaders with a .324 batting average, 34 home runs and 103 RBIs.

With the collapse, Detroit earned an unwanted place in baseball history, becoming the first team to miss the playoffs after having a three-game lead with four games left.

"That still hurts," Cabrera said. "We'd been ahead in the division all year and we were ready for the playoffs, and it just disappeared."

Cabrera is under contract through 2015 at an average salary of just more than $20 million, and Dombrowski was pleased that the team didn't have to force him into a treatment program.

"This was not a battle at all," the GM said. "Miguel recognized the issue and understood that something needed to be done. I met with him and his representative the day after the season, and we put together a plan. Miguel followed that plan and continues to follow it."

Tigers manager Jim Leyland said he was "thrilled" that Cabrera chose to address the situation openly on Thursday.

"I think it is great. I'm a firm believer that the best policy in a situation like this is to tell the truth and get it over with," Leyland said. "Now it is out there, and he won't have to worry about the media hunting around to try to find out what really happened."

Cabrera knows that he will have to win over fans who were angered in October, but Leyland doesn't think there will be a problem in the Tigers' clubhouse.

"This is a wonderful kid, and we all know that," Leyland said. "He's been forgiven by every teammate and by every coach."

Detroit ace Justin Verlander (FSY) agreed.

"I haven't spoken to Miguel yet, so I don't want to say too much, but I can't imagine there would be any lingering issues," he said. "He's a great guy that is dealing with a problem, and we'll support him."

Here's to hoping the kid can stay on the sober side, great talent

 

[Eephus]

Hopefully Cabrera can get his life in order. If he takes care of himself, he's on his way to a Hall of Fame career.

Bill James' favorite toy projects him to 2718 career hits and 478 HRs w/ a 34% chance of reaching 3000 H and a 46% chance of 500 HRs. Those numbers will increase if he continues his pace toward the career goals.

 

[Anthony Borbely]

Tigers slugger Miguel Cabrera treated for alcoholism

Here's to hoping the kid can stay on the sober side, great talent

Here is a pretty interesting stat from Cabrera's 2008 season. Link

Cabrera said he never played drunk. But he acknowledged that "sometimes you feel tired. Sometimes you feel like your body is kind of lazy."

What did this mean for his baseball skills? I can't say for sure.

But I do know that, in day games as a Tiger, Cabrera has hit .272, with one home run every 27.1 at-bats. At night, he has hit .328 and averaged one home run every 14.4 at-bats.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Tigers slugger Miguel Cabrera treated for alcoholism

Here's to hoping the kid can stay on the sober side, great talent

Here is a pretty interesting stat from Cabrera's 2008 season. Link

Cabrera said he never played drunk. But he acknowledged that "sometimes you feel tired. Sometimes you feel like your body is kind of lazy."

What did this mean for his baseball skills? I can't say for sure.

But I do know that, in day games as a Tiger, Cabrera has hit .272, with one home run every 27.1 at-bats. At night, he has hit .328 and averaged one home run every 14.4 at-bats.

BTW, could you imagine Mickey Mantle's stats if he was allowed to play more night games?

 

[Gopher State]

Where the Tigers stand at each position:

Catcher

Gerald Laird is the No. 1 catcher after throwing out a league-leading 42% of attempted basestealers, although he hit .225. Alex Avila, 23 on Jan. 29, looks like the future and will get a chance to play after being a Class AA All-Star and hitting .279 in 29 games with the Tigers last year.

First base

Miguel Cabrera had the numbers (.324 average, 34 home runs, 103 RBI) to be a leading MVP candidate, but his season ended in controversy when police said he had an altercation with his wife and was found to be drunk the morning before playing a game that could have determined whether the Tigers made the playoffs. Cabrera was not charged and apologized for his actions. He will be entering the third year of an eight-year, $152.3 million contract, and, at 26, his best years should be yet to come.

Second base

The Tigers didn't sign a veteran to replace Placido Polanco, who signed as a free agent with the Philadelphia Phillies, because they are expecting prospect Scott Sizemore to take over the position. Sizemore was the Tigers' minor league player of the year in 2009, hitting .308 with 39 doubles, 17 home runs and 66 RBI combined at Classes AA and AAA. The Tigers say he needs to smooth out his defensive work, and even though he broke his left ankle in the Arizona Fall League, he will be ready when spring camp opens.

Shortstop

Adam Everett, a light-hitting, defensive-minded shortstop, will be in his second season with the Tigers. He hit .248 last season with three home runs and led the American League with 15 sacrifice hits. Ramon Santiago isn't as strong on defense but can provide pop at the plate, hitting .267 with seven homers in 296 at-bats last season.

Third base

The Tigers expect Brandon Inge, who had knee surgery in November, to be ready for spring training, but how much production they will get from him is open to debate. He had a strong first half (21 home runs, .268 average), and then was slowed the remainder of season by the knee injury, hitting .186 with six home runs. He is eligible for free agency after the season.

Left field

At age 33, Carlos Guillen, originally a shortstop, would prefer to play the infield, but he's going to be the Tigers' left fielder. He has two years and $26 million left on his contract, making him difficult to trade. One of the Tigers' leaders, he played in the outfield for the first time in his career in 2009. But inflammation in his right shoulder limited him to 81 games. Ryan Raburn, who played five positions last season, can spell Guillen.

Center field

Curtis Granderson is gone, but the Tigers say prospect Austin Jackson, acquired for Granderson from the New York Yankees, has the speed and defensive ability to handle Comerica Park's spacious outfield. Jackson, 23 on Feb. 1, hit .300 with four home runs, 123 strikeouts and 24 stolen bases at Class AAA in 2009. He will get a chance to win the job in spring training, but if he is not ready, Clete Thomas or Casper Wells could be the options.

Right field

Magglio Ordonez, 35, got enough plate appearances in 2009 to guarantee his 2010 contract for $18 million, but it was a struggle. He hit .260 with a .673 on-bas-plus-slugging percentage (OPS) in the first half before coming alive and hitting .375 with a .978 OPS in the second half. He should get more playing time at DH this year. Raburn will play right field, too.

Designated hitter

Tigers manager Jim Leyland will rotate his designated hitters, mostly using Ordonez, Guillen and Cabrera. The DHs last year hit .245 with 17 home runs and 65 RBI.

Starters

The first three spots will be filled by Justin Verlander, Rick Porcello and Max Scherzer. Verlander (league-leading 269 strikeouts) and Scherzer are among the top power pitchers in baseball. Questions arise after them. The Tigers hope Jeremy Bonderman, who won 39 games from 2005 to 2007, has recovered after nearly two years of shoulder woes. Armando Galarraga, a surprise as a rookie in 2008, finished last season in the bullpen and went 6-10 with a 5.64 ERA overall. Other candidates include Nate Robertson, Eddie Bonine and Dontrelle Willis, whose status is unclear after missing most of 2009 with an anxiety disorder. Casey Crosby, 21, and Jacob Turner, 18, could follow in the footsteps of Verlander and Porcello as high-ceiling homegrown talents who mature quickly.

Bullpen

With Fernando Rodney and Brandon Lyon gone as free agents, Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski has set out to rebuild a bullpen that was in need of change. Young left-handers Daniel Schlereth (Arizona Diamondbacks) and Phil Coke (Yankees) were acquired in trades and join healthy Joel Zumaya as well as Ryan Perry, Zach Miner, Bobby Seay and Fu-Te Ni. Perry, Schlereth and Zumaya have power arms and could be formidable.

Closer

Jose Valverde strengthened the back of the bullpen when he agreed to a two-year, $14 million contract. He has 116 saves since 2007, tied for fourth most in baseball. He is another reliever who can throw in the mid-90s. Zumaya and Perry can provide him with relief if needed.

***

Write up by AP

 

[whoknew]

According to mlbtraderumors, the Tigers and Verlander are talking about a long term deal. The basis is 5 yrs/$75mm but allegedly Verlander wants a 6th year guaranteed.

 

[igbomb]

According to mlbtraderumors, the Tigers and Verlander are talking about a long term deal. The basis is 5 yrs/$75mm but allegedly Verlander wants a 6th year guaranteed.

Pay him.

 

[Anthony Borbely]

According to mlbtraderumors, the Tigers and Verlander are talking about a long term deal. The basis is 5 yrs/$75mm but allegedly Verlander wants a 6th year guaranteed.

Pay him.

 

[Balco]

The more I think about the Yanks/Tigers/Diamondbacks deal, the more I think Detroit came out the big winners. Didn't realize how overrated Granderson was as a hitter, and Scherzer has a limitless ceiling, injuries notwithstanding. And Schlereth figures to be a very good middle reliever with a closer's ceiling. Obviously Jackson is a wild card. The Tigers shed salary and got some fantastic young players. Great trade.

 

[Da Guru]

According to mlbtraderumors, the Tigers and Verlander are talking about a long term deal. The basis is 5 yrs/$75mm but allegedly Verlander wants a 6th year guaranteed.

Pay him.

History shows that 6 years deals for pitchers are not good business.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Agent: Damon wants to play for Tigers 0 Comment February 1 Detroit News Share Article"Johnny Damon, the free-agent outfielder who helped the Yankees to a world championship in 2009, would be happy to talk with the Tigers. "Johnny believes the addition of him to Detroit's lineup would make the Tigers a winner," Scott Boras, Damon's agent, said during a Monday phone conversation. Boras agrees."He's batted .363 at Comerica Park, he has a .412 on-base percentage at Comerica," Boras said. Boras added, quoting Damon before Damon signed earlier contracts with the Yankees and Boston Red Sox: "I told you I could make the Yankees a winner, and I told you before I left Oakland (where he played in 2001) I could make a Boston a winner.""

Boras resorts to begging?Damon's not going to get what he wants. Detroit should offer him a 1 year deal around 3 million. I'd like him as a lefty lead off but he's old.

 

[TLEF316]

Agent: Damon wants to play for Tigers 0 Comment February 1 Detroit News Share Article"Johnny Damon, the free-agent outfielder who helped the Yankees to a world championship in 2009, would be happy to talk with the Tigers. "Johnny believes the addition of him to Detroit's lineup would make the Tigers a winner," Scott Boras, Damon's agent, said during a Monday phone conversation. Boras agrees."He's batted .363 at Comerica Park, he has a .412 on-base percentage at Comerica," Boras said. Boras added, quoting Damon before Damon signed earlier contracts with the Yankees and Boston Red Sox: "I told you I could make the Yankees a winner, and I told you before I left Oakland (where he played in 2001) I could make a Boston a winner.""

Boras resorts to begging?Damon's not going to get what he wants. Detroit should offer him a 1 year deal around 3 million. I'd like him as a lefty lead off but he's old.

As a yankee fan, i find this hysterical. the guy is what he is....a mercenary. Nothing wrong with that, but dont pretend you are something you arent. His act this winter is becoming tiresome. He'd go play in Japan if it was the most $$ he could get.

 

[igbomb]

Agent: Damon wants to play for Tigers 0 Comment February 1 Detroit News Share Article"Johnny Damon, the free-agent outfielder who helped the Yankees to a world championship in 2009, would be happy to talk with the Tigers. "Johnny believes the addition of him to Detroit's lineup would make the Tigers a winner," Scott Boras, Damon's agent, said during a Monday phone conversation. Boras agrees."He's batted .363 at Comerica Park, he has a .412 on-base percentage at Comerica," Boras said. Boras added, quoting Damon before Damon signed earlier contracts with the Yankees and Boston Red Sox: "I told you I could make the Yankees a winner, and I told you before I left Oakland (where he played in 2001) I could make a Boston a winner.""

Boras resorts to begging?Damon's not going to get what he wants. Detroit should offer him a 1 year deal around 3 million. I'd like him as a lefty lead off but he's old.

As a yankee fan, i find this hysterical. the guy is what he is....a mercenary. Nothing wrong with that, but dont pretend you are something you arent. His act this winter is becoming tiresome. He'd go play in Japan if it was the most $$ he could get.

Half of your team are players willing to sign with whatever team will pay them the most yet also pretend that's not the case. You only fault Damon because he's not actually a Yankee anymore.

 

[TLEF316]

I don't fault him at all. Its his last contract and he wants all he can get. I just find it funny that he spent the first 2 months of the off season trying to guilt trip the Yankees into ponying up a couple extra million. Now that he knows its not going to happen, he's all "I want to win in Detroit". If he wanted to win, he would have signed the deal with the Yankees. He just looks like a fool.

Any time Boras gets caught holding a big bag of "I overplayed my hand" its a win for baseball.

The difference between Damon and the guys on the yankees is that those guys usually had multiple bidders willing to fork over top dollar. Damon does not.

 

[whoknew]

Tigers and Verlander agree to 5 year/$80mm deal.

 

[SofaKings]

Tigers and Verlander agree to 5 year/$80mm deal.

I think that deal is ok for the Tigs, but I'll wait until Greco chimes in to firm up my final decision.

 

[Doctor Detroit]

Tigers and Verlander agree to 5 year/$80mm deal.

I think that deal is ok for the Tigs, but I'll wait until Greco chimes in to firm up my final decision.

He's the most talented Tiger pitcher in my lifetime so to me this was a no-brainer. They have Porcello, Verlander, Scherzer, and Cabrera for at least the next five years and I like that core to make a run or two. Still don't get why they let Lyon and Rodney walk then overpaid for Valverde but so far I like the off-season moves. Getting another bat would have been nice though. Two years after they were supposed to set a league record for runs, it's the pitching that will win them games and the hitting just has to be good enough. I think the Tigers will be big players in the market next year, trying to build a championship team with a young core and pitching. A lot of people complained the team was full of over the hill slow guys, by next spring all of them but Guillen will likely be gone and a young and athletic team will be in its place. I think a quick rebuild might have been the way to go, we'll see if it turns out like Dombrowski envisions it. Being in a pennant race this year would certainly make me a believer and 85 games might be enough to win the division.

 

[Da Guru]

Tigers and Verlander agree to 5 year/$80mm deal.

I think that deal is ok for the Tigs, but I'll wait until Greco chimes in to firm up my final decision.

He's the most talented Tiger pitcher in my lifetime so to me this was a no-brainer. They have Porcello, Verlander, Scherzer, and Cabrera for at least the next five years and I like that core to make a run or two. Still don't get why they let Lyon and Rodney walk then overpaid for Valverde but so far I like the off-season moves. Getting another bat would have been nice though. Two years after they were supposed to set a league record for runs, it's the pitching that will win them games and the hitting just has to be good enough. I think the Tigers will be big players in the market next year, trying to build a championship team with a young core and pitching. A lot of people complained the team was full of over the hill slow guys, by next spring all of them but Guillen will likely be gone and a young and athletic team will be in its place. I think a quick rebuild might have been the way to go, we'll see if it turns out like Dombrowski envisions it. Being in a pennant race this year would certainly make me a believer and 85 games might be enough to win the division. :X

I would like to see them sign Damon for the right price. We need a lefty bat.

 

[skillz]

Tigers and Verlander agree to 5 year/$80mm deal.

Nice - it was huge to get this done. Like the signing a lot!

 

[whoknew]

Tigers and Verlander agree to 5 year/$80mm deal.

I think that deal is ok for the Tigs, but I'll wait until Greco chimes in to firm up my final decision.

He's the most talented Tiger pitcher in my lifetime so to me this was a no-brainer. They have Porcello, Verlander, Scherzer, and Cabrera for at least the next five years and I like that core to make a run or two. Still don't get why they let Lyon and Rodney walk then overpaid for Valverde but so far I like the off-season moves. Getting another bat would have been nice though.

I don't think that's hard to understand. He's pretty clearly better than Rodney or Lyon. I don't love that they paid so much for Valverde, but I'd definitely want him more than the other two.

 

[SofaKings]

Tigers and Verlander agree to 5 year/$80mm deal.

I think that deal is ok for the Tigs, but I'll wait until Greco chimes in to firm up my final decision.

He's the most talented Tiger pitcher in my lifetime so to me this was a no-brainer. They have Porcello, Verlander, Scherzer, and Cabrera for at least the next five years and I like that core to make a run or two. Still don't get why they let Lyon and Rodney walk then overpaid for Valverde but so far I like the off-season moves. Getting another bat would have been nice though. Two years after they were supposed to set a league record for runs, it's the pitching that will win them games and the hitting just has to be good enough. I think the Tigers will be big players in the market next year, trying to build a championship team with a young core and pitching. A lot of people complained the team was full of over the hill slow guys, by next spring all of them but Guillen will likely be gone and a young and athletic team will be in its place. I think a quick rebuild might have been the way to go, we'll see if it turns out like Dombrowski envisions it. Being in a pennant race this year would certainly make me a believer and 85 games might be enough to win the division.

I would like to see them sign Damon for the right price. We need a lefty bat.

Last I saw Damon wanted 10+mill a year. No thanks.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Tigers and Verlander agree to 5 year/$80mm deal.

Nice - it was huge to get this done. Like the signing a lot!

Good to get it out of the way.

 

[meeka]

Tigers and Verlander agree to 5 year/$80mm deal.

Nice - it was huge to get this done. Like the signing a lot!

Good to get it out of the way.

A bit more than I thought it would take to sign him, but I like 5 for $80 better than signing him for 6 years.

 

[igbomb]

Tigers and Verlander agree to 5 year/$80mm deal.

I think that deal is ok for the Tigs, but I'll wait until Greco chimes in to firm up my final decision.

He's the most talented Tiger pitcher in my lifetime so to me this was a no-brainer. They have Porcello, Verlander, Scherzer, and Cabrera for at least the next five years and I like that core to make a run or two. Still don't get why they let Lyon and Rodney walk then overpaid for Valverde but so far I like the off-season moves. Getting another bat would have been nice though. Two years after they were supposed to set a league record for runs, it's the pitching that will win them games and the hitting just has to be good enough. I think the Tigers will be big players in the market next year, trying to build a championship team with a young core and pitching. A lot of people complained the team was full of over the hill slow guys, by next spring all of them but Guillen will likely be gone and a young and athletic team will be in its place. I think a quick rebuild might have been the way to go, we'll see if it turns out like Dombrowski envisions it. Being in a pennant race this year would certainly make me a believer and 85 games might be enough to win the division.

I would like to see them sign Damon for the right price. We need a lefty bat.

Last I saw Damon wanted 10+mill a year. No thanks.

More and more it looks like $5 may get it done.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

More and more it looks like $5 may get it done.

Not a big Damon fan but if he fits anywhere it's in this weak hitting lineup. The guy at least has shown he can hit in this park.

 

[Gopher State]

Johnny Damon still a man in search of a team

By Julie Fletcher, AP

Johnny Damon hit .364 in the World Series, including two stolen bases in the 10th inning of Game 4, but remains unemployed.

It has been three months since Johnny Damon stole the bases heard 'round the world, but since then the silence has been deafening.

The New York Yankees, the team Damon helped lead to the World Series championship, never made an offer, despite reports to the contrary, according to agent Scott Boras.

Just two weeks before pitchers and catchers report for spring training, Damon still is looking for work.

"I still feel there is a quality market for Johnny Damon," Boras says, "and I'm negotiating with a number of teams. There are three teams out there that if they don't have Johnny Damon, they're not winning the division. He's the difference in these teams making the playoffs or not contending."

Boras is referring to the Detroit Tigers, the Atlanta Braves and an unknown third team.

What appears clear is the love affair between Damon and the Yankees is over. The only thing unsettled is whether Damon actually rejected a Yankees offer or was never really offered one.

Boras is reluctant to resurrect the negotiations but insists there was never a deal for Damon to reject. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman, who is in China and unavailable for comment Thursday, has disputed Boras' recollection. He said the Yankees made a two-year, $14 million offer in December but that Damon wanted $20 million.

Boras says that Cashman called him Nov. 9, informed him that they planned to sign Damon but wanted to first re-sign pitcher Andy Pettitte.

When Boras telephoned Cashman back six weeks later, he said, they had already made an offer to DH-first baseman Nick Johnson.

Boras informed Cashman he was seeking a two-year deal worth about $13 million a year and would be willing to settle for a two-year, $20 million deal. Yet, when asked by Cashman if he would take a two-year, $14 million deal, Boras says it was never an official offer because they still were awaiting the results of Johnson's physical. When Johnson's one-year, $5.5 million deal was completed, the Yankees said they had only $2 million left in their budget. The roster spot was eventually taken by Randy Winn, who signed for $2 million.

"I can never predict what will happen in February, but talent has no wristwatch," Boras says. "There's always room for difference-makers. Fans know that teams are 95% complete, but a guy like this can make a dramatic difference."

No doubt the Tigers are the front runners for Damon, but I think it takes a two year deal for a total of 14 Million, 7m a year to seal the deal.

 

[Da Guru]

Johnny Damon still a man in search of a team By Julie Fletcher, AP Johnny Damon hit .364 in the World Series, including two stolen bases in the 10th inning of Game 4, but remains unemployed. It has been three months since Johnny Damon stole the bases heard 'round the world, but since then the silence has been deafening.The New York Yankees, the team Damon helped lead to the World Series championship, never made an offer, despite reports to the contrary, according to agent Scott Boras.Just two weeks before pitchers and catchers report for spring training, Damon still is looking for work."I still feel there is a quality market for Johnny Damon," Boras says, "and I'm negotiating with a number of teams. There are three teams out there that if they don't have Johnny Damon, they're not winning the division. He's the difference in these teams making the playoffs or not contending."Boras is referring to the Detroit Tigers, the Atlanta Braves and an unknown third team.What appears clear is the love affair between Damon and the Yankees is over. The only thing unsettled is whether Damon actually rejected a Yankees offer or was never really offered one.Boras is reluctant to resurrect the negotiations but insists there was never a deal for Damon to reject. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman, who is in China and unavailable for comment Thursday, has disputed Boras' recollection. He said the Yankees made a two-year, $14 million offer in December but that Damon wanted $20 million.Boras says that Cashman called him Nov. 9, informed him that they planned to sign Damon but wanted to first re-sign pitcher Andy Pettitte. When Boras telephoned Cashman back six weeks later, he said, they had already made an offer to DH-first baseman Nick Johnson.Boras informed Cashman he was seeking a two-year deal worth about $13 million a year and would be willing to settle for a two-year, $20 million deal. Yet, when asked by Cashman if he would take a two-year, $14 million deal, Boras says it was never an official offer because they still were awaiting the results of Johnson's physical. When Johnson's one-year, $5.5 million deal was completed, the Yankees said they had only $2 million left in their budget. The roster spot was eventually taken by Randy Winn, who signed for $2 million."I can never predict what will happen in February, but talent has no wristwatch," Boras says. "There's always room for difference-makers. Fans know that teams are 95% complete, but a guy like this can make a dramatic difference."No doubt the Tigers are the front runners for Damon, but I think it takes a two year deal for a total of 14 Million, 7m a year to seal the deal.

I heard on the radio the market for Damon is in the 3-5 million a year area. I don`t see Damon getting more than 2 for 10 at this stage.

 

[Greco]

Tigers and Verlander agree to 5 year/$80mm deal.

I think that deal is ok for the Tigs, but I'll wait until Greco chimes in to firm up my final decision.

this deal received my blessing. you are clear to towel wave.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Something's going to happen soon.

Johnny Damon nearing decision 0 Comment February 11 ESPN.com Share Article"The Johnny Damon Sweepstakes appeared to be nearing the finish line Thursday, as Damon tries to choose from several offers far less than the two-year, $20 million deal he and agent Scott Boras have been seeking.Two sources told ESPN.com that the Detroit Tigers have made the largest offer, amid speculation around the industry that that bid is in the range of one year, $7 million. There were indications the sides were still discussing a possible two-year deal. But even the Tigers' one-year offer appears to be the biggest offer on the table.The Atlanta Braves and Tampa Bay Rays have also remained in the bidding, with both teams talking about one-year contracts for fewer total dollars than the Tigers' offer. MLB.com reported that the Braves' offer was for less than $4 million. A source indicated the Chicago White Sox also have expressed late interest."

Johnny Damon Rumors: ThursdayBy Ben Nicholson-Smith [February 11 at 3:05pm CST]3:05pm: Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports and Jim Bowden tweet that the White Sox and Tigers are bidding on Damon. 2:48pm: Tigers owner Mike Ilitch has authorized a two-year $14MM offer, sources tell Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. It's hard to imagine Damon turning this kind of offer down.Damon is also considering a one-year $7MM offer from the Tigers and a one-year offer from the Braves. Atlanta won't likely offer two years, since they have outfield prospects Jason Heyward and Jordan Schafer.2:02pm: Damon is nearing a decision and could agree to a deal this week, reports ESPN.com's Jayson Stark. Damon's best available offer comes from the Tigers. Insiders guess they're offering a one-year deal worth $7MM or so, but the sides haven't ruled out a two-year deal.The Braves and Rays are still involved and a source tells Stark that the White Sox have interest. The Braves and Rays are talking one-year deals and neither club has offered as much as the Tigers.1:21pm: The Tigers appear willing to top the Braves' offer to Johnny Damon, tweets Newsday's Ken Davidoff. Davidoff suggests that the Tigers could offer Damon $4.5MM, which would top Atlanta's offer of about $4MM.Yesterday, we heard that the Braves offered Damon a deal worth less than $4MM. The deal includes deferred money, according to multiple reports. Earlier in the week, FOX Sports reported that Damon was still looking for a multi-year deal.

They'd better not be bidding against themselves. Honestly, $7 million for 1 year sounds pretty steep. $14 million and 2 years is not a good deal imo.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Something's going to happen soon.

Johnny Damon nearing decision

0 Comment February 11 ESPN.com Share Article"The Johnny Damon Sweepstakes appeared to be nearing the finish line Thursday, as Damon tries to choose from several offers far less than the two-year, $20 million deal he and agent Scott Boras have been seeking.

Two sources told ESPN.com that the Detroit Tigers have made the largest offer, amid speculation around the industry that that bid is in the range of one year, $7 million. There were indications the sides were still discussing a possible two-year deal. But even the Tigers' one-year offer appears to be the biggest offer on the table.

The Atlanta Braves and Tampa Bay Rays have also remained in the bidding, with both teams talking about one-year contracts for fewer total dollars than the Tigers' offer. MLB.com reported that the Braves' offer was for less than $4 million. A source indicated the Chicago White Sox also have expressed late interest."

They'd better not be bidding against themselves. Honestly, $7 million for 1 year sounds pretty steep. $14 million and 2 years is not a good deal imo.

Using him as a one year stopgap with the money off the books for 2011 sounds ok to me, I doubt if they would spend that money anywhere else this year.

 

[Greco]

i like it. 1 yr. 2 yrs. whatever it takes.

 

[Da Guru]

I don`t understand..if the Braves have offered Damon a one year deal at 4 million or less than 4. 2 for 10 sounds like a nice gesture from the Tigers. How does it get to 2 for 14??

 

[SofaKings]

Tigers and Verlander agree to 5 year/$80mm deal.

I think that deal is ok for the Tigs, but I'll wait until Greco chimes in to firm up my final decision.

this deal received my blessing. you are clear to towel wave.

 

[Flipper]

I don`t understand..if the Braves have offered Damon a one year deal at 4 million or less than 4. 2 for 10 sounds like a nice gesture from the Tigers. How does it get to 2 for 14??

Because that's what Scott Boras told them to offer!

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Here's the latest from MLB Trade Rumors

Johnny Damon Rumors: Thursday

By Ben Nicholson-Smith [February 11 at 9:29pm CST]

9:29pm: MLB.com's Scott Merkin concurs, adding that he believes the White Sox have about $4MM to offer Damon.

5:50pm: According to Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago's interest in Johnny Damon is more about "due diligence" than anything else, and if the price tag is around $7MM per season, that is beyond their budget.

4:48pm: Heyman tweets that the Tigers may have offered slightly more than $14MM.

4:21pm: ESPN.com's Buster Olney tweets that executives expect Damon to sign with the Tigers.

4:15pm: Braves president John Schuerholz tells Jim Bowden that GM Frank Wren is "engaged" in talks with Damon and Scott Boras (Twitter link).

3:56pm: Jon Heyman of SI.com tweets that the Tigers have one and two-year offers on the table to Damon. The Braves and White Sox are also involved.

3:05pm: Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports and Jim Bowden tweet that the White Sox and Tigers are bidding on Damon.

 

[Da Guru]

Guillen, Damon and Maggs to cover the spacious Comerica outfield.

Pretty sure I could beat two out of the three in a footrace.

 

[meeka]

Guillen, Damon and Maggs to cover the spacious Comerica outfield.Pretty sure I could beat two out of the three in a footrace.

I think one will DH, maybe Jackson in center?

I would bet we see Damon, Jackson and Maggs in the outfield. With a healthy dose of Damon, Jackson and Raburn to keep Maggs ABs down a bit. If they sign Damon I would hope that Guillen never sees the outfield.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Guillen, Damon and Maggs to cover the spacious Comerica outfield.Pretty sure I could beat two out of the three in a footrace.

I think one will DH, maybe Jackson in center?

I would bet we see Damon, Jackson and Maggs in the outfield. With a healthy dose of Damon, Jackson and Raburn to keep Maggs ABs down a bit. If they sign Damon I would hope that Guillen never sees the outfield.

I'd bet that Jackson starts the year in the minors. Rayburn.

 

[skillz]

Signing Damon to a 2 year deal would be stupid.

I was hoping 1 year for 5 million, but could tolerate them signing him for 1 year at 7 million. The key is to only commit to him for one year - we have enough OF who are on the downside of their career. Why add another to the mix for 2 years? We have too much money coming off the books before 2011 and will have a lot of flexibility to make some moves for position players. I don't want to be stuck with both Guillen and Damon on the roster next year.