Tiger Geist

Jason Beck writes that Brandon Inge will start catching more, and wonders if it is a nod to next year. I wonder if Inge read my blog earlier this year, ran the numbers, and saw that he’s worth more as a catcher. Or, maybe he’s been slightly humbled by no teams asking about him and his $6mil /year salary.

Interesting aspect: Putting Inge in the field could hurt Leyland’s ability for matchups late in the game. Consider the scenario: If Guillen has a day off, Inge is at third and is 0-3 through 8 innings. Men on second and third, one out, tie game, and the opposing team puts in a right-handed reliever. Leyland’s natural move would be to pinch-hit with Guillen (a switch hitter). But now he has to remember… close game that could go into extra innings… and no backup catcher. I guess this goes on a lot in the national leagues, but do you take that chance with a 36 year old behind the plate? Similarly, Inge can not DH, or, in case of injury to Pudge, Detroit has to play musical chairs NL style to avoid the pitcher batting.

Crazy? Last year, SF lost two catchers in one game (double switch and an injury to the backup), put Pedro Feliz behind the plate (first time ever), and had pitcher Noah Lowry in right field.

I also think this states a lot as to what the Tigers expect to get from Vance Wilson this year… that is… not much.