How do you expect one or two big signings (K-Rod, shortstop etc.) to accomplish what you want? Look at the contracts. The Tigers are committed to $140m next year and from all accounts, need to strip down to $100m unless Illitch wants to open that wallet wide again (not going to happen). Revenue is going to be down. Parting with Magglio (think basic fantasy strategy: trade high, buy low) is a surefire way to do that but what other big contracts could they move? No one wants Robertson, Sheffield, Guillen or Inge (the major committed contracts for next season). You’ll get crap in return, at best. All Leyland can do is to write this year off and start next year fresh. Bonderman will return, Garcia will hopefully sign on and Rodney will get some work done in the off-season (along with Willis, we hope). Armando can take up Kenny’s slot in the roster.

I’m not saying the Tigers are a sure fire for the playoffs in 2009. I fully expect a better season out of what will be essentially the same staff with a few position tweaks, mostly using minor-league staff.