There were two main questions that were to be worked out as we moved to the final roster and the beginning of the season. Especially once we worked through how the team would function with both Fielder and Cabrera in the lineup. Both have been answered as the Red Sox come to Comerica tomorrow.
1.) The Tigers 5th Starter
From the edges has emerged Drew Smyly. With Jacob Turner having a spotty spring, including an injury and Andy Oliver slowing down at the end of our time in Lakeland, Drew Smyly will be our guy... At least for the first quarter of the season.
What to expect: With his solid performance in spring, Smyly will have numerous opportunities to cement his spot on the Tiger's rotation. However, expect for Oliver and Turner to emerge on the scene with any injuries or with inevitable poor performance by anyone out of the bullpen.
2.) The Second Extra Infielder
We knew that one of the three would not be on the roster. It was either going to be Brandon Inge, Ramon Santiago or Danny Worth. This decision was made easy through Inge's pulled groin. The question will now become whether or not Inge will be one the team or sent to Toledo once he returns.
What to expect: Once Inge is better, he will begin at AAA and then earn his way back onto the team with good enough numbers heading into the summer. Whether or not he and his 6 million dollar salary will compete well enough to say is anyone's guess.
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