***Officialish Detroit Tigers Thread*** (2 Viewers)

[scrumptrulescent]

Tom Verducci of SI.com reports that Jhonny Peralta is named in the records of Biogenesis wellness clinic director Tony Bosch.

Peralta has released a statement through his attorney, stating that he has "never used performance enhancing drugs. Period. Anybody who says otherwise is lying." He is the 12th player overall and the fifth client of Seth and Sam Levinson's ACES agency to be connected to the clinic records, joining Nelson Cruz, Gio Gonzalez, Jesus Montero and Melky Cabrera. Peralta and Montero both do not appear to be directly tied to PEDs, though.

Hope there is nothing to see here. I also hope, as names keep leaking out for this stupid clinic, that Melky Cabrera is the only Cabrera in MLB to be named.

Miguel PEDs=Courvoisier and ConeysAnd who cares if Peralta used PEDs? I hope he uses them in 2013, over and over again.

Peralta needs to use more PEDS, and earlier in the year. They didn't seem to start to kick in till after the all star break last year.

Peralta needs Sensa for Men.

 

[Doctor Detroit]

Got Nats/Tigers tix for when they come to DC.

 

[Gopher State]

Tigers roll in at No. 8 in Sports Illustrated's MLB power rankingsBy The Detroit News The re-signing of starter Anibal Sanchez gives the Tigers a solid pitching rotation, but the lack of a closer could "haunt" the team this season, a Sports Illustrated analyst writes. (Robin Buckson/Detroit News) A Sports Illustrated writer lists the Tigers at No. 8 in a power ranking of all 30 Major League Baseball teams. The Washington Nationals, who added center fielder Denard Span, a career .284 hitter, top the list compiled by SI's Joe Lemire, who places four NL teams (Nats, Braves, Giants and Reds) ahead of the AL Blue Jays at No. 5. Of the Tigers, Lemire noted the AL champions improved in a few areas. But, "That bullpen issue could haunt them," Lemire wrote. The re-signing of starter Anibal Sanchez and the return of designated hitter Victor Martinez from knee surgery should bolster the Tigers, Lemire said.Sports Illustrated’s MLB power rankings: 1. Washington Nationals 2. Atlanta Braves 3. San Francisco Giants 4. Cincinnati Reds 5. Toronto Blue Jays 6. Tampa Bay Rays 7. St. Louis Cardinals 8. Detroit Tigers 9. L.A. Dodgers 10. Texas Rangers 11. L.A. Angels 12. Oakland Athletics 13. N.Y. Yankess 14. Baltimore Orioles 15. San Diego Padres 16. Philadelphia Phillies 17. Kansas City Royals 18. Boston Red Sox 19. Arizona Diamondbacks 20. Pittsburgh Pirates 21. Chicago White Sox 22. Milwaukee Brewers 23. Cleveland Indians 24. Seattle Mariners 25. Chicago Cubs 26. Colorado Rockies 27. N.Y. Mets 28. Minnesota Twins 29. Miami Marlins 30. Houston Astros Don't understand why the Tigers don't throw some money at a closer, some will say well we can always trade, but who wants to wait unit the all star break to make a deal. The window is open for the tigers, all they need is a closer to close the deal. At least my Twins didn't finish 30th.

 

[whoknew]

Don't understand why the Tigers don't throw some money at a closer, some will say well we can always trade, but who wants to wait unit the all star break to make a deal. The window is open for the tigers, all they need is a closer to close the deal. At least my Twins didn't finish 30th.

Every team has a closer. You just don't always know who it is. Tigers have enough relievers.

 

[jon_mx]

Don't understand why the Tigers don't throw some money at a closer, some will say well we can always trade, but who wants to wait unit the all star break to make a deal. The window is open for the tigers, all they need is a closer to close the deal. At least my Twins didn't finish 30th.

Every team has a closer. You just don't always know who it is. Tigers have enough relievers.

It was not like we really had a closer last year. The Tigers will find one with the guys we have or will pick one up around the All-star break. This is a much better team than last year. Just the fact you don't see Inge, Raburn, and Young in the lineup is a huge plus. I really don't care what stupid magazines rank them. Every anal list had SF winning the super bowl.

 

[Da Guru]

The dog days are here. Check out the Pistons..since getting Jose Calderon they are actually fun to watch. I never knew much about Calderon but he is the real deal and totally unselfish. Plays and distributes the ball like John Stockton used to.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

The dog days are here. Check out the Pistons..since getting Jose Calderon they are actually fun to watch. I never knew much about Calderon but he is the real deal and totally unselfish. Plays and distributes the ball like John Stockton used to.

Yes, actually a good trade by Joe. Once Drummond gets back they will get even better.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Sports Illustrated’s MLB power rankings:

1. Washington Nationals - Soriano

2. Atlanta Braves - Kimbrel

3. San Francisco Giants - Romo

4. Cincinnati Reds - Broxton

5. Toronto Blue Jays - Janssen

6. Tampa Bay Rays - Rodney

7. St. Louis Cardinals - Motte

8. Detroit Tigers

28. Minnesota Twins :X

Don't understand why the Tigers don't throw some money at a closer, some will say well we can always trade, but who wants to wait unit the all star break to make a deal. The window is open for the tigers, all they need is a closer to close the deal. At least my Twins didn't finish 30th.

Great call on the closers. It's obvious from the current closers on the teams listed ahead of Detroit that if you don't have an elite guy, you have no shot.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

SI has exactly one good issue a year.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Justin Verlander said Monday that he will not pitch for the United States in the World Baseball Classic.Verlander has done some waffling on the decision, but ultimately he's decided it's best if he prepares for the season in camp with his Tigers teammates. Detroit is no doubt pleased with the decision of their ace given his massive workloads over the previous few seasons.

 

[jon_mx]

SI has exactly one good issue a year.

Is that the one with the fat chick with the hairlip?

 

[Da Guru]

Justin Verlander wants an extension: 'I love Detroit'Bob Nightengale, USA TODAY Sports11:43a.m. EST February 11, 2013LAKELAND, Fla. -- Detroit Tigers ace Justin Verlander, who said Monday that he would love to sign an extension to remain with the organization the rest of his career, also revealed that he will not pitch in the World Baseball Classic."I'm not going to play, I'm a little behind after going so deep in the playoffs,'' Verlander said, whose team won the American League pennant, but was swept in the World Series. "I don't want to feel rushed to catch up. I want to do it the right way. "first and foremost, I have to be ready for this team.''Verlander, who has two years remaining on his contract at $20 million each, also informed his agent [Mike Milchin] that he would be interested in signing a long-term extension to stay with the Tigers. They have yet to open contract negotiations, Verlander said."My agent knows where I stand,'' Verlander said. "He knows I love Detroit. I feel like I'm a kindred part of that town. I grew up in front of these fans, and earned my way into their hearts, and it doesn't very often anymore where a guy sticks with one team his whole career. It just doesn't happen. You don't get that kind of loyalty from either side.''

 

[Gopher State]

Justin Verlander wants an extension: 'I love Detroit'Bob Nightengale, USA TODAY Sports11:43a.m. EST February 11, 2013LAKELAND, Fla. -- Detroit Tigers ace Justin Verlander, who said Monday that he would love to sign an extension to remain with the organization the rest of his career, also revealed that he will not pitch in the World Baseball Classic."I'm not going to play, I'm a little behind after going so deep in the playoffs,'' Verlander said, whose team won the American League pennant, but was swept in the World Series. "I don't want to feel rushed to catch up. I want to do it the right way. "first and foremost, I have to be ready for this team.''Verlander, who has two years remaining on his contract at $20 million each, also informed his agent [Mike Milchin] that he would be interested in signing a long-term extension to stay with the Tigers. They have yet to open contract negotiations, Verlander said."My agent knows where I stand,'' Verlander said. "He knows I love Detroit. I feel like I'm a kindred part of that town. I grew up in front of these fans, and earned my way into their hearts, and it doesn't very often anymore where a guy sticks with one team his whole career. It just doesn't happen. You don't get that kind of loyalty from either side.''

So I think King Felix got 175m for six yearsCC got about 161 for six yearsWhat is JV next contract range, I would think above Felix so between 180 and 190 for six years. Worth ever penny based on his performance and shortage of ACE pitchers in MLB

 

[jon_mx]

7 years....201

 

[Eephus]

Sports Illustrated’s MLB power rankings:

1. Washington Nationals - Soriano

2. Atlanta Braves - Kimbrel

3. San Francisco Giants - Romo

4. Cincinnati Reds - Broxton

5. Toronto Blue Jays - Janssen

6. Tampa Bay Rays - Rodney

7. St. Louis Cardinals - Motte

8. Detroit Tigers

28. Minnesota Twins :X

Don't understand why the Tigers don't throw some money at a closer, some will say well we can always trade, but who wants to wait unit the all star break to make a deal. The window is open for the tigers, all they need is a closer to close the deal. At least my Twins didn't finish 30th.

Great call on the closers. It's obvious from the current closers on the teams listed ahead of Detroit that if you don't have an elite guy, you have no shot.

Only one of these elite closers was considered an elite closer in Feburary 2012. Motte had 12 career MLB SVs, Janssen and Romo had less than that. Broxton, Soriano and Rodney had some previous closer success but weren't in that role last spring.

 

[Notorious T.R.E.]

The dog days are here. Check out the Pistons..since getting Jose Calderon they are actually fun to watch. I never knew much about Calderon but he is the real deal and totally unselfish. Plays and distributes the ball like John Stockton used to.

:spittake:

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Sports Illustrated’s MLB power rankings:

1. Washington Nationals - Soriano

2. Atlanta Braves - Kimbrel

3. San Francisco Giants - Romo

4. Cincinnati Reds - Broxton

5. Toronto Blue Jays - Janssen

6. Tampa Bay Rays - Rodney

7. St. Louis Cardinals - Motte

8. Detroit Tigers

28. Minnesota Twins :X

Don't understand why the Tigers don't throw some money at a closer, some will say well we can always trade, but who wants to wait unit the all star break to make a deal. The window is open for the tigers, all they need is a closer to close the deal. At least my Twins didn't finish 30th.

Great call on the closers. It's obvious from the current closers on the teams listed ahead of Detroit that if you don't have an elite guy, you have no shot.

Only one of these elite closers was considered an elite closer in Feburary 2012. Motte had 12 career MLB SVs, Janssen and Romo had less than that. Broxton, Soriano and Rodney had some previous closer success but weren't in that role last spring.

:whoosh:

 

[Gopher State]

Rondon is the best story line so far in the central I wouldn't be shocked to see the tigers start him the bull pen as a reliever and gradually move him up to the closer. I think Coke could get the first shot to be the closer. A lot of pressure to start a rookie as your closer.

 

[Captain Hook]

Rondon is the best story line so far in the central I wouldn't be shocked to see the tigers start him the bull pen as a reliever and gradually move him up to the closer. I think Coke could get the first shot to be the closer. A lot of pressure to start a rookie as your closer.

Detroit is already on record as giving Rondon shot to be closer right away

 

[RnR]

Rondon is the best story line so far in the central I wouldn't be shocked to see the tigers start him the bull pen as a reliever and gradually move him up to the closer. I think Coke could get the first shot to be the closer. A lot of pressure to start a rookie as your closer.

Detroit is already on record as giving Rondon shot to be closer right away

Leyland was asked if the closer spot was 22-year-old rookie Bruce Rondon’s job to lose.“No, it’s not like that,” Leyland said. “I’m going to look at all my options, and hopefully I’ll make a decision."

My link

 

[Doctor Detroit]

Rondon is the best story line so far in the central I wouldn't be shocked to see the tigers start him the bull pen as a reliever and gradually move him up to the closer. I think Coke could get the first shot to be the closer. A lot of pressure to start a rookie as your closer.

Detroit is already on record as giving Rondon shot to be closer right away

Leyland was asked if the closer spot was 22-year-old rookie Bruce Rondon’s job to lose.“No, it’s not like that,” Leyland said. “I’m going to look at all my options, and hopefully I’ll make a decision."

My link

And if you have followed Leyland over his career he is weird with closers, he doesn't like a by-committee approach and I think Rondon is still too raw to win out of spring. I think Benoit is the guy to open but even if Rondon wins the job they have already indicated he will not pitch consecutive days until well into the season. So Coke and Benoit will both be getting saves even if Rondon is the primary closer (for fantasy purposes).

 

[Eephus]

Rondon is the best story line so far in the central I wouldn't be shocked to see the tigers start him the bull pen as a reliever and gradually move him up to the closer. I think Coke could get the first shot to be the closer. A lot of pressure to start a rookie as your closer.

Detroit is already on record as giving Rondon shot to be closer right away

Leyland was asked if the closer spot was 22-year-old rookie Bruce Rondon’s job to lose.“No, it’s not like that,” Leyland said. “I’m going to look at all my options, and hopefully I’ll make a decision."

My link

And if you have followed Leyland over his career he is weird with closers, he doesn't like a by-committee approach and I think Rondon is still too raw to win out of spring. I think Benoit is the guy to open but even if Rondon wins the job they have already indicated he will not pitch consecutive days until well into the season. So Coke and Benoit will both be getting saves even if Rondon is the primary closer (for fantasy purposes).

I'm drafting Stan Belinda in the last round of every league

 

[jon_mx]

LAKELAND, Fla. -- Jhonny Peralta reported to spring training 20 pounds lighter than he was last season.Peralta says he can feel the difference during drills and while taking grounders. Detroit Tigers manager Jim Leyland said he can see the difference."I can tell you firsthand that he's moving better," Leyland said. "Now, how that's going to play out, I don't know. But he's moving better. You can see him flowing if you watch. You can see him just kind of gliding and flowing better already, without question."Peralta said upon reporting to spring training that he felt the weight loss would make a difference. He said Sunday afternoon that he feels better on the field."I feel good," he said. "The couple days that I've been working out, I feel really good on the field. I'm moving good side to side. I feel good for right now."Peralta said another positive side effect from the weight loss is that he feels less tired than he otherwise would have.The Tigers are not noted for their infield defense, and there was a lot of focus last season from fans on a perceived lack of range on Peralta's part.But an improved Peralta at shortstop and having Omar Infante at second base should be an improvement up the middle for the Tigers compared to the start of last season, when Peralta and Ryan Raburn were the starters at short and second.

Maybe all that trade talk lit a fire under his ####. Hopefully him and Omar can figure out how to turn a double play this year.

 

[MAC_32]

Peralta is an awful defensive SS.

I am pretty sure I hate Peralta more than Greco hates Inge.

I hate them both!Why do I think that Inge will manage the Tigers one day????

Because unlike Peralta, Inge at least has a head for the game and plays his heart out everyday. He's just not that good. Peralta doesn't know what effort is, he keeps getting contracts because his end game numbers look alright enough but on the field he is just an awful ball player.

Not the 'decent on paper but doesn't pass the eye test' bullocks. Peralta is a mediocre hitting, mediocre defending shortstep. And that's the extent of what we know about the guy. To pretend that by watching him on the field you somehow have an idea of how much heart he has is silly. He is what he is. Just like Inge. One isn't better than the other because he appears to try harder.

Can we re-visit this? I want to believe this new Jay Honey is real, but having seen the better part of a decade of a frustratingly lazy (on and off the field) but talented ball player stew around somewhere between replaceable and barely mediocre I am shockingly finding it hard to think this is a new version. More like a temporary change of attitude only to regress 2 months into the season.Prove me wrong, Jay Honey. Please?

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Anyone have good things to say about any of the non-roster invitees other than Castellanos? No....Don Kelly doesn't count.

Detroit Tigers Non-Roster Invitees# Pitchers B/T Ht Wt DOB 71 Jose Alvarez L-L 5'11" 180 May 6, 1989 63 Trevor Bell L-R 6'2" 205 Oct 12, 1986 73 Kenny Faulk L-L 6'0" 235 May 27, 1987 66 Shawn Hill R-R 6'2" 225 Apr 28, 1981 75 Michael Morrison R-R 6'1" 210 Dec 17, 1987 76 Ryan Robowski L-L 6'0" 185 Feb 3, 1988 # Catchers B/T Ht Wt DOB 82 Curt Casali R-R 6'2" 220 Nov 9, 1988 65 Brad Davis R-R 6'1" 190 Dec 29, 1982 81 James McCann R-R 6'2" 210 Jun 13, 1990 # Infielders B/T Ht Wt DOB 70 Argenis Diaz R-R 6'0" 190 Feb 12, 1987 67 Kevin Russo R-R 5'11" 190 Jul 8, 1984 77 Eugenio Suarez R-R 5'11" 180 Jul 18, 1991 68 Matt Tuiasosopo R-R 6'2" 225 May 10, 1986 # Outfielders B/T Ht Wt DOB 79 Nick Castellanos R-R 6'4" 210 Mar 4, 1992 72 Tyler Collins L-L 5'11" 215 Jun 6, 1990 74 Daniel Fields L-R 6'2" 215 Jan 23, 1991 32 Don Kelly L-R 6'4" 190 Feb 15, 1980

Also, does anyone know anything about Jeff Kobernus? Rule 5 acquisition and it looks like he can run like a deer based on minor league stats.

 

[Doctor Detroit]

Fields is a top tenish prospect who should improve more and more, McCann is supposed to be the future organizational depth catcher but he was awful last year. Suarez is the real guy to keep an eye on though, he went from relative unknown to a guy with good potential after his time at West Michigan last year. Tigers franchise just has had nothing as far as SS go with everyone crashing and burning, this guy might be different. Has gap power, solid fielder. Fields and McCann will be in Erie again, Suarez will be there by mid-season. The rest are mostly a mixed bag of spare parts. I guess Alvarez is worth watching.

 

[teamramrod]

Long day gentlemen. I know the game is a few days away. But I am drinking a glass of Florida Orange Juice and remembering a man who made my life better. I miss this on the cracklin AM airwaves as I sat in my office in February adjusting antennas to hear the first game of spring training...

"For lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; the flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land."

I love you Ernie. When you spoke, all was right with the world. You were the sound of the singing birds, you heralded the retreat of the ice and snow and brought us all the joy and the magic of grown men in pajamas who hit a ball and caught it and made us all smile.

You were the voice of the turtle.

I do not know what I think about God, but for your sakes old friend, I am hoping He is real and you are walking at His right hand and enjoying Paradise.

Dammit, I miss you Sir.

Peace

 

[Da Guru]

Dotel running his mouth again.

 

[Doctor Detroit]

Dotel running his mouth again.

It doesn't mean he's wrong though. The team lacked a vocal leader last year and I think a guy like Fielder is the guy that should be taking a larger role. Verlander and Cabrera can be themselves and set the example, I think they are fine but obviously Dotel has some issue with it. Dude has played on a lot of teams, seen a lot of things so I'm not sure he's wrong. Should he be keeping this stuff in house? Yeah, and therein lies the problem.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

LAKELAND, Fla. -- Octavio Dotel said he was sorry. Multiple times. Miguel Cabrera said he didn't really care. Jim Leyland said he was glad Dotel put the incident in the past right away.Dotel questioned Cabrera's leadership in a story published on Yahoo! Sports late Tuesday night."You have to step up and say something," Dotel said in the story. "Miggy's more about his game. I don't see him as a leader."Dotel said he apologized to Cabrera and the rest of his teammates Wednesday morning. He said he felt his comments didn't accurately express what he meant."I don't mean to make people think that he's not the guy," Dotel said. "He's our guy. He's our horse. He's our man. If we don't have Miggy, hello, where are we going to be? I don't know where we're going to be."Dotel, normally a happy-go-lucky presence in the clubhouse, was visibly upset as he discussed the matter with media members for several minutes."Yes, big time," Dotel said when asked if the incident had upset him. "Because that's not what I was trying to mean. And I'm sorry that Miggy thinks the way he thinks. I feel bad. I apologized to him and everyone here about that leader comment."Cabrera addressed the incident very briefly and said it wasn't a big deal. But he seemed surprised by his teammate's words."If he's saying that -- wow -- what do you want (me) to say," Cabrera said quietly. "That's his opinion."Cabrera was told that Dotel didn't want Cabrera to be upset with him."No, no, no," Cabrera said. "Why? No. I'm good. I'm good with him. I have nothing to say."The leadership question had been raised by Dotel before. After the Tigers dropped Game 4 of the American League Division Series last year, Dotel loudly encouraged Cabrera to speak to media members to show that the Tigers were not panicking. Cabrera declined to comment to media members that night.Dotel asked that the Tigers hold a team meeting following that loss but said he was rebuffed. The Yahoo! Sports story said that Dotel also asked for a team meeting during the World Series, but Dotel denied that fact."Never against the Giants," Dotel said. "I was hoping. That's what I'm saying. Sometimes they don't put it the way I (mean it). I was hoping."Leyland said Dotel handled his apology the right way."I like stuff like that," Leyland said. "Boom. Over. Done. Done. Move on. Good. It's great stuff, but that's why you have to be careful."Dotel repeatedly spoke of his respect for Cabrera as a teammate."When you have a guy like that play for you -- let's say 160 games -- you have to have respect for that guy," he said. "And I do. I have respect for Miggy. … I'm a man. And I'm just going to say sorry to him. Everything is fine. Everything is good. Nothing to worry about. Just a simple comment."Dotel was asked how he thought the leadership issue might have changed in the offseason with the addition of Torii Hunter and the return of Victor Martinez."We won't have a problem with that this year," Dotel said. "That's how I see it."

 

[jon_mx]

Dotel running his mouth again.

It doesn't mean he's wrong though. The team lacked a vocal leader last year and I think a guy like Fielder is the guy that should be taking a larger role. Verlander and Cabrera can be themselves and set the example, I think they are fine but obviously Dotel has some issue with it. Dude has played on a lot of teams, seen a lot of things so I'm not sure he's wrong. Should he be keeping this stuff in house? Yeah, and therein lies the problem.

Yeah, the last time Dotel ran his mouth it looked like the Tigers were going to lose the division to the Sux. After that the Tigers turned it around and won it. This team has lacked fire and leadership. I am hoping VMart and Hunter can change that, maybe Prince can step up. I agree with Dotel.

 

[igbomb]

Dotel running his mouth again.

It doesn't mean he's wrong though. The team lacked a vocal leader last year and I think a guy like Fielder is the guy that should be taking a larger role. Verlander and Cabrera can be themselves and set the example, I think they are fine but obviously Dotel has some issue with it. Dude has played on a lot of teams, seen a lot of things so I'm not sure he's wrong. Should he be keeping this stuff in house? Yeah, and therein lies the problem.

Yeah, the last time Dotel ran his mouth it looked like the Tigers were going to lose the division to the Sux. After that the Tigers turned it around and won it. This team has lacked fire and leadership. I am hoping VMart and Hunter can change that, maybe Prince can step up. I agree with Dotel.

I'm with Leyland on this one. The rah-rah bullcrap doesn't apply in baseball. See the ball, hit the ball. You don't need locker room leaders. Maybe one of the reasons Dotel has been on so many teams is because he's always stirring crap up.Last year, he tried to call for a team meeting when they lost a game in the ALCS. Everyone told him to get bent then they went out and won the thing. Team chemistry is over-rated.

 

[Doctor Detroit]

Dotel running his mouth again.

It doesn't mean he's wrong though. The team lacked a vocal leader last year and I think a guy like Fielder is the guy that should be taking a larger role. Verlander and Cabrera can be themselves and set the example, I think they are fine but obviously Dotel has some issue with it. Dude has played on a lot of teams, seen a lot of things so I'm not sure he's wrong. Should he be keeping this stuff in house? Yeah, and therein lies the problem.

Yeah, the last time Dotel ran his mouth it looked like the Tigers were going to lose the division to the Sux. After that the Tigers turned it around and won it. This team has lacked fire and leadership. I am hoping VMart and Hunter can change that, maybe Prince can step up. I agree with Dotel.

I'm with Leyland on this one. The rah-rah bullcrap doesn't apply in baseball. See the ball, hit the ball. You don't need locker room leaders. Maybe one of the reasons Dotel has been on so many teams is because he's always stirring crap up.Last year, he tried to call for a team meeting when they lost a game in the ALCS. Everyone told him to get bent then they went out and won the thing. Team chemistry is over-rated.

 

[MAC_32]

Couldn't disagree more with igbomb's clubhouse take.

 

[RnR]

Couldn't disagree more with igbomb's clubhouse take.

"Hi, I'm igbomb, and I never played competitive sports.... EVER."

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Couldn't disagree more with igbomb's clubhouse take.

"Hi, I'm igbomb, and I never played competitive sports.... EVER."

These are professionals though. Do they really need someone leading them in the clubhouse to play better? They sure shouldn't need that motivation.Miggy has never been a leader in that way. He's not a big speech in front of the team guy. Leave that to Fielder, maybe V Mart, or now maybe even Hunter. Miggy is about playing hard, having fun, and leading by example on the field. He plays every single day, whether he's hurt or not. He also will help other guys in the batting cage....not try to change their swing or anything, but give them tips. Just knowing he's on my team would give me confidence if I played with him.

 

[RnR]

Couldn't disagree more with igbomb's clubhouse take.

"Hi, I'm igbomb, and I never played competitive sports.... EVER."

These are professionals though. Do they really need someone leading them in the clubhouse to play better? They sure shouldn't need that motivation.Miggy has never been a leader in that way. He's not a big speech in front of the team guy. Leave that to Fielder, maybe V Mart, or now maybe even Hunter. Miggy is about playing hard, having fun, and leading by example on the field. He plays every single day, whether he's hurt or not. He also will help other guys in the batting cage....not try to change their swing or anything, but give them tips. Just knowing he's on my team would give me confidence if I played with him.

Being a professional doesn't preclude them from experiencing the human emotion elements of baseball. Of course Miggy is good to lead that way, each guy brings their own unique set of skills to the table. That type of leadership is different, but beneficial in its own way. Each clubhouse is different, but to suggest that a group of guys that don't get along are going to mesh together as a team just because they are professionals is inaccurate I believe.It is not really about yelling or giving inspirational speeches, some teams need that and others don't. It is about defining roles, making people comfortable with them as part of a cohesive unit, and making sure everyone is "rowing the boat" in the same direction.

 

[Doctor Detroit]

Cabrera doesn't need to be a vocal leader, he leads by example with his play. It's really not in his personality and I'm fine with that. Fielder is really more of a guy that has the personality to lead with his voice, and I think you'll see more of that this year. Tough even for him coming into a place with Miggy and Verlander, you have to step carefully for awhile. They need to be asked these questions, I like what Dotel did and hope he does more of it.

 

[igbomb]

Dotel running his mouth again.

It doesn't mean he's wrong though. The team lacked a vocal leader last year and I think a guy like Fielder is the guy that should be taking a larger role. Verlander and Cabrera can be themselves and set the example, I think they are fine but obviously Dotel has some issue with it. Dude has played on a lot of teams, seen a lot of things so I'm not sure he's wrong. Should he be keeping this stuff in house? Yeah, and therein lies the problem.

Yeah, the last time Dotel ran his mouth it looked like the Tigers were going to lose the division to the Sux. After that the Tigers turned it around and won it. This team has lacked fire and leadership. I am hoping VMart and Hunter can change that, maybe Prince can step up. I agree with Dotel.

I'm with Leyland on this one. The rah-rah bullcrap doesn't apply in baseball. See the ball, hit the ball. You don't need locker room leaders. Maybe one of the reasons Dotel has been on so many teams is because he's always stirring crap up.Last year, he tried to call for a team meeting when they lost a game in the ALCS. Everyone told him to get bent then they went out and won the thing. Team chemistry is over-rated.

ALDS, sorry.

 

[MAC_32]

Miggy doesn't need to be a vocal leader, it's not his m.o. Victor is back and we signed hunter. Leadership will be a big part of their roles.

 

[igbomb]

Couldn't disagree more with igbomb's clubhouse take.

"Hi, I'm igbomb, and I never played competitive sports.... EVER."

A) Don't be that guy. I've played sports most of my life, but whether I have or haven't makes me in no way more or less suited to opine on the inside of an MLB clubhouse.B) Mr. Leyland himself has said he doesn't buy clubhouse morale. If you're on a winning team, everyone is happy. If not, no one is. That's it.

 

[igbomb]

Couldn't disagree more with igbomb's clubhouse take.

"Hi, I'm igbomb, and I never played competitive sports.... EVER."

These are professionals though. Do they really need someone leading them in the clubhouse to play better? They sure shouldn't need that motivation.Miggy has never been a leader in that way. He's not a big speech in front of the team guy. Leave that to Fielder, maybe V Mart, or now maybe even Hunter. Miggy is about playing hard, having fun, and leading by example on the field. He plays every single day, whether he's hurt or not. He also will help other guys in the batting cage....not try to change their swing or anything, but give them tips. Just knowing he's on my team would give me confidence if I played with him.

Being a professional doesn't preclude them from experiencing the human emotion elements of baseball. Of course Miggy is good to lead that way, each guy brings their own unique set of skills to the table. That type of leadership is different, but beneficial in its own way. Each clubhouse is different, but to suggest that a group of guys that don't get along are going to mesh together as a team just because they are professionals is inaccurate I believe.It is not really about yelling or giving inspirational speeches, some teams need that and others don't. It is about defining roles, making people comfortable with them as part of a cohesive unit, and making sure everyone is "rowing the boat" in the same direction.

None of the major sports require less chemistry between teammates than baseball. The large majority of the game is individual. I've played football and basketball, and guys getting along certainly helps. But I've played baseball too, and that crap doesn't matter. You get in the batter's box, and it's you and the pitcher. I'm not thinking about that guy on my team that I hate in the least.Find me one iota of scientific evidence that team morale has any impact on winning. The sports landscape is littered with teams that hated one another and kicked everyone else's ###.Jeff Francoeur and Michael Young are known as clubhouse leader types. I wouldn't want either of them on the team.

 

[MAC_32]

Happy workers are more productive workers. Pretty simple imho.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Dotel was asked how he thought the leadership issue might have changed in the offseason with the addition of Torii Hunter and the return of Victor Martinez."We won't have a problem with that this year," Dotel said. "That's how I see it."

This is my favorite part, Dotel basicly says again what he just got done saying he was sorry for saying.

 

[igbomb]

Happy workers are more productive workers. Pretty simple imho.

And do you know when workers are happiest? Research shows pretty clearly that there is a very strong correlation between company/economic success and worker satisfaction. My point, and one that Jimmy shares, is that teams don't win because players are happy. Players are happy because their team is winning. It's stupid to think that the presence of a true leader on the team is going to determine this team's fortunes. It's an old hacky sportswriter's crutch when a team struggles or succeeds and is nothing by column fodder.

 

[MAC_32]

Happy workers are more productive workers. Pretty simple imho.

And do you know when workers are happiest? Research shows pretty clearly that there is a very strong correlation between company/economic success and worker satisfaction. My point, and one that Jimmy shares, is that teams don't win because players are happy. Players are happy because their team is winning. It's stupid to think that the presence of a true leader on the team is going to determine this team's fortunes. It's an old hacky sportswriter's crutch when a team struggles or succeeds and is nothing by column fodder.

Chicken or the egg. Get talent. Get leadership. Covers both ends, no leaks to the ship.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Happy workers are more productive workers. Pretty simple imho.

And do you know when workers are happiest? Research shows pretty clearly that there is a very strong correlation between company/economic success and worker satisfaction. My point, and one that Jimmy shares, is that teams don't win because players are happy. Players are happy because their team is winning. It's stupid to think that the presence of a true leader on the team is going to determine this team's fortunes. It's an old hacky sportswriter's crutch when a team struggles or succeeds and is nothing by column fodder.

Chicken or the egg. Get talent. Get leadership. Covers both ends, no leaks to the ship.

Talent is much more important than leadership in MLB.

 

[jon_mx]

Couldn't disagree more with igbomb's clubhouse take.

"Hi, I'm igbomb, and I never played competitive sports.... EVER."

These are professionals though. Do they really need someone leading them in the clubhouse to play better? They sure shouldn't need that motivation.Miggy has never been a leader in that way. He's not a big speech in front of the team guy. Leave that to Fielder, maybe V Mart, or now maybe even Hunter. Miggy is about playing hard, having fun, and leading by example on the field. He plays every single day, whether he's hurt or not. He also will help other guys in the batting cage....not try to change their swing or anything, but give them tips. Just knowing he's on my team would give me confidence if I played with him.

Being a professional doesn't preclude them from experiencing the human emotion elements of baseball. Of course Miggy is good to lead that way, each guy brings their own unique set of skills to the table. That type of leadership is different, but beneficial in its own way. Each clubhouse is different, but to suggest that a group of guys that don't get along are going to mesh together as a team just because they are professionals is inaccurate I believe.It is not really about yelling or giving inspirational speeches, some teams need that and others don't. It is about defining roles, making people comfortable with them as part of a cohesive unit, and making sure everyone is "rowing the boat" in the same direction.

None of the major sports require less chemistry between teammates than baseball. The large majority of the game is individual. I've played football and basketball, and guys getting along certainly helps. But I've played baseball too, and that crap doesn't matter. You get in the batter's box, and it's you and the pitcher. I'm not thinking about that guy on my team that I hate in the least.Find me one iota of scientific evidence that team morale has any impact on winning. The sports landscape is littered with teams that hated one another and kicked everyone else's ###.Jeff Francoeur and Michael Young are known as clubhouse leader types. I wouldn't want either of them on the team.

All sports have a huge mental aspect. Peralta is a fine example. If the other players would get on him about his half-### effort he displays at times, I think he could be a damn good shortstop. At times players need encouragement and at other times they need a kick in the ###. I don't care if they have 10 digit pay checks, they are human beings and a lot goes on in that brain which impacts performance. Getting into that right psych is critical to optimizing performance. Cabrara is a performer, who knows how to get there. He is not a leader, and does not need one. But other players do, and have some guys on the team for that bit of rah rah.

 

[jon_mx]

I am hoping Smyly gets the 5th spot. I think he is already a better pitcher than Porcello and has more upside. Porcello also lacks the ability to pitch late into a game. Porcello is better suited to be a middle reliever.

 

[Bogart]

Can you guys keep your kids in check please?