Tigers On The Right Track

The 2003 Detroit Tigers finished their season 43-119. Record losses in the books of the American League and the Detroit Tigers. Mike Maroth lost 20 games, Jeremy Bonderman would have if Trammell didn't move him to the bullpen for the final month of the season. It was a dismal, dark period for the Tigers.

The 2004 season brought new hope. The off-season signing of Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez brought back some fire among the players and fans not seen in years. Al Levine, Rondell White, and Fernando Vina also joined the Tigers, in hopes they could help a team rebuild. The efforts were noticed.

The Tigers finished the season 72-90. That doesn't sound impressive, but if you look at the 29 win increase from the prior season, it is significant. The Tigers could potentially gain another 10-15 wins this season with a couple key signings.

Let's first talk about the one that has already happened. Closing Pitcher Troy Percival signed with the Tigers in November, adding more depth to the bullpen. Percival's signing left Urbina as the odd man out, and could be either moved to a setup pitcher, or traded. My personal feelings would be to keep Urbina. Urbina is currently in Venezuela trying to recover his kidnapped mother. His trade value might be low not knowing when he's coming back.

Steve Finley and Troy Glaus are also on the Tigers' radar. It has been reported that each have been offered a contract. Glaus was a teammate of Percival’s in Anaheim the last few seasons, and Percival could be a factor in swinging his decision to sign with the Tigers. Finley would make an excellent addition to center field for the next couple of seasons while minor leaguer Granderson gets ready for the big leagues. Where does this leave Brandon Inge? They still have 2 outfield positions. Inge's arm strength could bolster the outfield, and keep his strong bat in the lineup.

Speaking of strong arms, Carl Pavano watch is still in effect. Pavano has a reported four year, $40 million offer from the Tigers. Last week him and agent Shapiro were in town, and left with a warm fuzzy feeling for the Tigers organization. I have seen nothing but positive reports from this meeting. Pavano spent the last few seasons in Florida. He played on the World Series winning team with Pudge, and credits Pudge for making him a better pitcher. Pudge could become a factor in this signing.

Time will tell what other signings the Tigers have in mind. They still lack bullpen pitchers, and could be compelled to go after another starter. The winter meetings start December 10. Should be a good outing.

-Dan Joseph