We’ll have more from the Prince Fielder introductory press conference later, but one big piece of news from Detroit Tigers manager Jim Leyland: Miguel Cabrera will make the move across the diamond to third base immediately.
That was one of the proposed scenarios after the Tigers and Fielder agreed to a nine-year, $214 million contract — Cabrera played third base with the Marlins in 2005 and 2006.
However, with Victor Martinez likely out for the year because of an ACL injury, there was the possibility that Cabrera and Fielder would split time between first base and DH, with Brandon Inge and Don Kelly sharing time at third base.
Leyland shot down that idea.
“”Miguel Cabrera’s going to play third base. I’ll make that perfectly clear today,” Leyland said.
The Tigers manager added that he talked to Inge about Cabrera’s move — which could mean the end of Inge’s time in Detroit. Leyland said that Inge was “not a happy camper” but “understands” the situation.
Later in the press conference, Leyland also offered a glimpse at what the Tigers’ Opening Day lineup might look like: Austin Jackson, Brennan Boesch, Cabrera, Fielder, Delmon Young, Alex Avila, Jhonny Peralta, Andy Dirks/Don Kelly/Clete Thomas and Ryan Raburn.
Cabrera batted fourth for much of last year, though Leyland answered questions repeatedly about the possibility of moving Cabrera up a spot in the order. The Tigers’ slugger did bump up to third in interleague play and in the playoffs. That move appears to be permanent now.
Check Out Our Products!