Tiger Geist

First thing that came to mind after hearing about the Rudy Darrow for Josh Anderson trade:  what?

Second thought:  He’s a faster, less powerful but will-hit-for-a-higher-average version of Matt Joyce.

So far, Edwin Jackson looks like the real thing.  Rudy Darrow, who knows.  If you think about it, if Detroit hadn’t made the Joyce for Jackson trade, they’d be in even worse of a position:  They still have a log-jam in the outfield, but they’d be hurting for starting pitching.  The only advantage of Joyce was that he still had options available (note:  Joyce has been hurt for most of this spring).

We don’t have a lot of data on what Joyce would turn into, but projecting his minor league numbers, with his half of a season professional numbers, has him looking like a power corner outfielder that won’t hit for average.  What doesn’t Detroit need right now?  Power hitters who don’t hit for average who can’t play center.

It seemed that Joyce projects to be a fourth outfielder;  looks like Anderson is more of a fifth outfielder.  But he absolutely fits a need:  Speed.  And, I’m still of the opinion that Clete Thomas is going to be a player, but needs more time.  Now he’ll get it.

If you’re basing a Rudy Darrow for Edwin Jackson trade, hands down Jackson is the better asset.  Based on Detroit’s lineup and projected minor league depth (corner outfielders it appears), is Josh Anderson that big of a downgrade from Matt Joyce?  I liked the Jackson trade, and I think I like this one too.  If you can spin it as essentially a Rudy Darrow for Edwin Jackson move, its a huge win… though maybe thats stretching it just a little bit.

Does this mean Ryan Raburn will return to Toledo?  (Probably).  If so, what position would he play?  Would he really be the first person called up in case of injury?  If not, why hold onto him (and his spot on the 40 man roster)?