I’ve been hoping for a major shocker this off-season for the Detroit Tigers. My dream is that the Tigers steal free agent C.C. Sabathia from the loving arms of the New York Yankees. Odds are that’s not going to happen, though, as C.C. seems destined to wear pinstripes.
From what we’re hearing on the local scene, the free agent starting pitchers Tigers General Manager Dave Dombrowski has his eyes on are A.J. Burnett of the Toronto Blue Jays and Ryan Dempster of the Chicago Cubs.
Either one — or both — would be a major signing for the Tigers. Burnett is 17-10 with a 4.31 ERA and 203 strikeouts. To date, he’s thrown over 200 innings. Dempster is 15-6 with a 3.02 ERA and 173 strikeouts. To date, he’s thrown 190 innings.
We’ll see how Dontrelle Willis and Freddy Garcia pitch when they’re worked into the Tigers’ rotation this coming week. Strong performances by either one of them may postpone any free agent signings since the Tigers already have a seriously bloated payroll.
Me? I’m convinced the Tigers current staff is incapable of getting the job done. I also think that serious competition for Justin Verlander within his ranks would force him to be a better, more consistent pitcher, if he truly wants to keep the title of “ace.”
This is going to be one of the most interesting off-seasons in years. Cross your fingers.
Kenno-Reno from San Bernadino
It’s time to assess the pitching coach, Chuck Hernandez, as well. The constant injuries to the hurlers indicates improper conditioning and training. That’s attributable to coaching.