Johnny Damon to the Tigers?

by on 02/13/2010 in MLB News, MLB Trade Rumors

Johnny Damon to TigersIt has been a long winter for Johnny on the spot in hopes that the Yankees would offer a deal that would keep Damon in pinstripes for two more years. Unfortunately, the Yankees never called the 36 year old outfielder.

The Detroit Tigers are prepared to offer Johnny Damon $14MM over two years. This would make the Tigers the favorite in signing Damon, but that could change at any time.

Don’t hold your breath for a Damon signing. Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports tweets that nothing is imminent with the Tigers.

If the Tigers get Johnny Damon, it would likely solve the Tigers’ lack of left-handed bats in the lineup.

James Schmehl of MLive writes: Unlike former Tigers left-handed All-Star Curtis Granderson, Damon doesn’t have to be pulled from the lineup against left-handed pitchers. He’s an equal opportunist, hitting .291 against righties and .283 against lefties in his 13-year career. If he doesn’t make a start, it’s because he’s 36 years old — not because of a pitching matchup.

Damon’s presence could also result in one of three things for Raburn. Raburn could transition into a full-time utility player, making scheduled starts at third, first, left and center field. He could also split time at DH with Guillen and, occasionally, Magglio Ordonez. Or, he could platoon in center with Thomas. The latter would likely result in rookie Austin Jackson not making the 25-man roster.

Of course, if Jackson is sent to Triple-A Toledo to start the season, Damon would likely hit leadoff with second baseman Scott Sizemore batting No. 2.

I think the Tigers are putting too much into a 36 year old left fielder with no arm and at the end of his rope.

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2 Responses to “Johnny Damon to the Tigers?”

  1. MikeM

    Feb 13th, 2010

    I agree. I wish Johnny well and will always remember his 2-base steal in the 2009 World Series. But he just isn’t worth that kind of money at this point in his career. I thought the Yankees were wise to let him go and not just overpay him out of sentimental feelings.

    If Johnny can talk the Tigers into paying him $14 million over two years than I’d say he worked out a great deal. Can’t say the same for the Tigers.
    .-= MikeM´s last blog ..Powerline Computer Networking – Home Wifi Alternative =-.

  2. Commish

    Feb 13th, 2010

    Mike,

    I will never forget his performance at the World Series in 2009.