Short term implications: Zach can go on the 60 day DL and the Tigers can use that spot for another player as needed. No need to do it until they’re ready to call up a non roster player. That also solidifies Thomas and Bonine, at least temporarily, in a long relief role.

Longer term implications: Miner is one of four players that are arbitration eligible after this season. He won’t be getting a raise, and he’ll be eligible for free agency after the 2011 season. He’s a good bet to be non tendered this winter, or not added back to the roster when the season is over. He’ll then have to go back to the minors and try to work his way back to salvage his career.

I always liked Zach. He never quite fit in the way that Leyland wanted to use him- as a long reliever to come in with men on base and get the DP ball with that two seam sinker. He did well in two stints in the rotation, and pretty well strictly as a reliever for one season. I’d have had him ahead of Nate and Willis more than once on the depth chart for a rotation job. No matter, though. The pen is doing fine without him.

Sborz is already on the roster, and is also the closest to the majors should there be an opening in the pen, IMO. He would’ve been a minor league free agent if they didn’t add him at the end of last season. Robbie isn’t on the roster yet, and they have a while to add him. Casey Fien could be added back, or Jeff Larish if he gets a hot bat and there’s a need. Just a little more roster flexibility.

The four potential arb eligibles next winter are Zumaya, Miner, Raburn, and Galarraga. Not only do the Tigers have a ton of money coming off the books after this season, but none of the arbitration matters threatens to upset the payroll apple cart.

In that span, we haven’t had a single big leaguer undergo Tommy John while just about every other team has. The law of averages suggested it was gonna bite us sooner rather than later, so I’m not surprised.

also, I hate that Weinhardt is hurt now that a roster spot could be freed up if they want.

Zach Miner has been in pain since February? And now, in the last few days of May, they opt for season ending surgery?

Had he been diagnosed earlier for TJ, he would have had a better chance of contributing next year. He’s essentially lost three months of rehab this year… and now 2011 is in question for him.

Best of luck, Zach.