Trots
12-09-2001, 08:33 PM
Going into tomorrow's Winter Meetings, the Tigers have been rumored to be interested in a number of deals. Trading Juan Encarnacion appears to be the top priority. He has lots of talent, but has never seemed capable of progress.
In the free agent market, the Tigs are rumored to be considering Kenny Lofton, Tino Martinez and some middle relievers, including ex-Tiger Todd Jones. Lofton makes sense as the Tigers are without an everday CF and leadoff hitter. Lofton would fit both roles. Playing against his former employer, Cleveland, on a regular basis might also spark Lofton. Obviously, money will be the biggest issue with Lofton and any other FA Detroit is looking at.
I am dubious about the Martinez rumors. The Tigers have just too many players at that position now for them to add another name at first. Ilitch hasn't shown any real desire to increase the payroll, either. Playing one of the guys already under contract would cost less than bringing in Tino.
The only reason I don't completely dismiss the notion is that the team could be helped by having a winner around, Martinez would be better than all the other Tigers who can play first and he could be the 1B until Munson was ready. Finally, left handed power hitters should have a slightly better time at Comerica Park than right handed power guys. All in all, I'd be surprised to see Tino come to Detroit.
As for the middle relief rumors, I just don't think that is a position that requires immediate attention. I guess I'd take Jonesy back (he is a great guy), but with so many other needs, I don't see the urgency to get middle relief help.
I'm, however, hopeful Dombrowski can somehow upgrade this team before the meetings conclude.
In the free agent market, the Tigs are rumored to be considering Kenny Lofton, Tino Martinez and some middle relievers, including ex-Tiger Todd Jones. Lofton makes sense as the Tigers are without an everday CF and leadoff hitter. Lofton would fit both roles. Playing against his former employer, Cleveland, on a regular basis might also spark Lofton. Obviously, money will be the biggest issue with Lofton and any other FA Detroit is looking at.
I am dubious about the Martinez rumors. The Tigers have just too many players at that position now for them to add another name at first. Ilitch hasn't shown any real desire to increase the payroll, either. Playing one of the guys already under contract would cost less than bringing in Tino.
The only reason I don't completely dismiss the notion is that the team could be helped by having a winner around, Martinez would be better than all the other Tigers who can play first and he could be the 1B until Munson was ready. Finally, left handed power hitters should have a slightly better time at Comerica Park than right handed power guys. All in all, I'd be surprised to see Tino come to Detroit.
As for the middle relief rumors, I just don't think that is a position that requires immediate attention. I guess I'd take Jonesy back (he is a great guy), but with so many other needs, I don't see the urgency to get middle relief help.
I'm, however, hopeful Dombrowski can somehow upgrade this team before the meetings conclude.