The Tigers are coming off of a second place finish in the AL Central with their 88-74 record. Overall, the Tigers could have a lot of work to do this offseason.
Pitching
The first two questions are Kenny Rogers and Todd Jones. If Rogers is back, he will compliment the rest of the rotation in Jeremy Bonderman, Justin Verlander, Nate Robertson, and whoever takes the last remaining spot. Overall, the four are a pretty good group of starters. Another year of expeirence for Verlander should help him next season. Verlander appears to be the next ace of the team.
The bullpen is kind of strong. Joel Zumaya is one of the best young arms in baseball. Unfortunatly, he missed a chunk of last season due to injury. Zumaya can throw triple digits when healthy. Todd Jones closed last season, and if he's brought back, he may set-up Zumaya. The rest of the bullpen is like most others. Fernando Rodney and Jason Grili aren't bad relievers. The rest will be determined.
Infield
This infield that looks to be set for '08 looks real good. The acquistion of Edgar Renturia from the Braves fills the biggest void, and the biggest need of the team. With Renturia at short, Carlos Guillen will move to first full-time. Placido Polanco remains one of the best unknowns at 2B. Brandon Inge isn't a bad option at third. Ivan Rodriguez will be back behind the plate again. The veteran catcher has still remained one of the finest at the position, despite his age.
Outfield
A couple excellent surprises in the outfield this past season, should lead to very few changes in the offseason. Curtis Granderson came out of a cannon and showcased his fine defence and speed in CF. Magglio Ordonez came from nowhere to when the battling title with his .342 BA. The LF spot will likely be filled from withen. Timo Perez, Clayton Maybin and Marcus Thames will likely compete for that spot. The team has no problem with depth. Gary Sheffield will be 39 next season after he celebrates his birthday next week, and will likely be the team's DH once again next season. Some better power numbers would be nice from Sheff, but 25 HR and 75 RBI is still pretty good for an old guy.
Prognosis
The Tigers have a very good team and will onece again compete for the AL Central crown. If guys like Ordonez and Granderson can play like they did last year, Renturia and help out at short, the rotation stays strong and Joel Zumaya can be an effective closer, this will be a very good team in '08.
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