Somebody call the zoo keeper. There are too many Tigers in the outfield.
The incredible offensive and defensive performance of Matt Joyce has certainly earned him a spot in the Detroit Tigers’ starting lineup. This has created a strange dynamic now that Magglio Ordonez is off the disabled list.
There are too many legitimate outfield starters on the Tigers’ roster at the moment. While this is a good problem to have, some serious decisions have to be made and fast. Here’s what I propose:
Make The Tigers’ regular starting outfield: Matt Joyce, right field; Curtis Granderson, center field; Marcus Thames and Ryan Rayburn platooning in left field.
Move Ordonez to full-time designated hitter and occasional right fielder. And then trade Gary Sheffield before the deadline for some young pitchers or a veteran reliever.
Truth be told, the Tigers have a true shot at bouncing back and making the playoffs. Perhaps they can use their strong outfield as leverage to bolster their weak bullpen. It’s time for a meaningful move by GM Dave Dombrowski. The Tigers’ chances are slim with Todd Jones as their sole closer.
