You're the manager of the Tigers...what do you do in the second half? For the most part, I expect Jim Leyland to stand pat. He won't make any drastic changes. The rotation will be Verlander, Robertson, Rogers and Galarraga, with a fifth starter, when needed, coming from the minors or bullpen.
The platoon at catcher, with Pudge and Inge, also will continue.
Now, here's where it gets a little tricky. I like the idea of a three-way platoon in left field and DH between the two rookies, Thomas and Joyce, along with Thames. At least until the two young left-handers -- Thomas and Joyce -- stop hitting. I also like to see Thames as the DH once in a while in that rotation.
Here's the rub: that means the Tigers should release Sheffield. Dump his sorry bat and his awful ability to situation hit. They did this to Dmitri Young two years ago, when he stopped hitting and his personal problems (supposedly) entered the clubhouse. Getting rid of Sheffield would alleviate any problems in the future, like a whiny Sheff complaining about his playing time, at-bats, etc.
The other move would be to make Zumaya the closer, period. I know, if Jones doesn't close, then what do you do with him? It might be time to remake the bullpen, because if the Tigers don't win this year then they need to make some moves for next season. You have to find out about Rodney, too, so making him the setup man might be the other adjustment to the pen. Jones could be a guy to get 1-2 outs in the middle of the game, a RH specialist.
So, release Sheff and put Zumaya in the tought spot of closing. It won't happen, but it should. The Tigers have to do some drastic things to get ready for a run, if not this season then for next season.
Monday, July 14, 2008
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