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Prince Fielder brings more than a big bat to the Tigers lineup, Austin Jackson's slump is with any luck a thing of the past, and Brandon Phillips agrees to a contract extension with the Reds -- Rob is pissed. These stories and more in today's Morning Prowl.
Tigers links:
Tigers' Austin Jackson quickly distances himself from 2011 slump -- The Detroit News, Tony Paul
However, according to Jim Leyland after yesterday's game: "Let's not all get too excited about [Austin Jackson's start]." Thanks for peeing in my Cheerios, Jim.
Prince Fielder's unselfishness, smarts make Tigers big winners -- The Detroit News, Tony Paul
"While it's far too early to say, with any certainty, what the future holds - Fielder, after all, is just one ridiculously crazy weekend into his tenure as a Tiger - Mike Ilitch's gamble has serious potential."
State of the System - Detroit Tigers -- The Hardball Times, Jeff Moore
"The Detroit Tigers' farm system is one of those in a constant state of change, due to their aggressive approach in virtually all aspects of player development."
Brandon Inge begins rehab stint, eyes weekend return -- HardballTalk, Aaron Gleeman
You probably already know this. However, the photo accompanying the post could not be ignored.
Sesame Street Gets an Unwelcome Visitor -- DesigNate Robertson
Whether he's right or wrong, this is easily my favorite post ever written. Ever. Siwwy Wynn Henning.
Toledo Trio Roughed Up The Past Three Days -- Motor City Bengals, John Verburg
"One of the biggest stories of Tigers training camp and preseason was the fight for the 5th starter spot."
While the drawing in this link is fantastic, so is the commentary. For example: "(Use the blue eye, Max! The blue eye! Stop pitching with the brown!)"
Around the AL Central:
Royals Win 3-0, Even Series With Athletics -- Royals Review, Connor Moylan
"Nice win by the Royals to improve to 3-2 on the season. Some post-game notes."
Indians sign Carlos Santana to 5-year, $21 million extension -- USATODAY.com
Well, at least they have that going for them ...
Game tonight against Indians postponed, Humber to be skipped -- South Side Sox
"Discussing the effect of the postponement of tonight's game between the White Sox and Indians, including Phil Humber being skipped in the rotation."
Elsewhere in baseball:
Early Season Trends Worth Monitoring -- FanGraphs Baseball, Brandon Warne
Small sample sizes shouldn't stop anyone from making predictions. So there.
Vin Scully to Miss Dodgers’ Home-Opening Broadcast With Bad Cold -- Businessweek, Mason Levinson
Here's to a quick recovery for you, Mr. Scully.
Security tight for Dodgers opening day -- Yahoo! Sports, Robert Jablon
"Undercover officers wearing Pirates jerseys also were on hand." They don't appear to be messing around.
Vladimir Guerrero Allegedly Involved In Brawl In Dominican Republic -- Baseball Nation, Al Yellon
This seems like a healthy alternative to playing baseball. #NotReally
J.P. Arencibia throws out David Ortiz from his knees (Video) -- Big League Stew, David Brown
I'd be more impressed if it weren't David Ortiz. Newsflash: Losing 20 pounds doesn't make you lightning on the base paths.
Marlins did right thing to suspend Guillen -- SweetSpot Blog, David Schoenfield
I will reserve my opinion and open the floor for comments ... Be nice, everyone.
Brandon Phillips, Reds Agree To Contract Extension -- Baseball Nation
Rob's reaction: "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!"