Tigers#1
03-09-2003, 11:44 AM
Rookie SS Angel Berroa was told he has the starting job by manager Tony Pena despite doubts about his hitting last season and in the Dominican Winter League. Berroa has changed his stride and now swings down on the ball, eliminating a loop that produced too many popups. Fallback SS Desi Relaford's spring start was delayed by a bunion.
RF Mark Quinn's left hamstring problem, one of three injuries that stymied him last season, has resurfaced but it isn't considered a long-term problem. Still, if Quinn can't play, OFs Michael Tucker or Aaron Guiel are options. Guiel, who broke in with a hitting spurt last year after a long minor league career, caught Pena's attention this spring with a two-homer, seven-RBI outburst against the Rockies.
LHP Jeremy Affeldt, in contention to be the opening day starter, has overcome blister troubles on his left middle finger. Affeldt, RHP Runelvys Hernandez and LHP Darrell May are leaders in the rotation battle; LHP Chris George has a good chance at the fourth spot. --Dick Kaegel
RF Mark Quinn's left hamstring problem, one of three injuries that stymied him last season, has resurfaced but it isn't considered a long-term problem. Still, if Quinn can't play, OFs Michael Tucker or Aaron Guiel are options. Guiel, who broke in with a hitting spurt last year after a long minor league career, caught Pena's attention this spring with a two-homer, seven-RBI outburst against the Rockies.
LHP Jeremy Affeldt, in contention to be the opening day starter, has overcome blister troubles on his left middle finger. Affeldt, RHP Runelvys Hernandez and LHP Darrell May are leaders in the rotation battle; LHP Chris George has a good chance at the fourth spot. --Dick Kaegel