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Two steps forward, one step back
After a one-run outing in his first start, and seeing the Tigers move into first in the American League, both the team and Jordan Zimmermann hit a speed bump. Zimmermann looked more like his spring self giving up 5 earned in 4 2⁄3 innings and the team moved back into a tie at the top of the division with the Twins.
The good news is Miguel Cabrera got back on track with a home run, and Justin Upton went yard, as well. And, as we will be stating around her a lot, it is still way too early to get concerned about anything.
Well almost anything ...
Actually, feel free to be concerned about Anibal Sanchez. Used over recently called up Joe Jimenez, Anibal Sanchez was once again bombed.
Holy Sano! #Crushed pic.twitter.com/Vr4SkB9eNO
— MLB (@MLB) April 13, 2017
Sanchez has given up 11 runs (seven earned) in six innings and simply cannot keep the ball in the park. The problem is, Al Avila has 21.8 million reasons to keep him on the team.
#Tigers Anibal Sanchez might just soon be getting a $21.8-million parting gift. Unbelievable. That'll make $35.3M in dead money.
— Tony Paul (@TonyPaul1984) April 13, 2017
It’s easy to understand why they haven’t made the move yet. That being said, what’s the point of keeping him around, low leverage situations? One or two more bad outing and it is probably ax time.
About that call up
The other issue with Anibal Sanchez is he is using up a roster spot. A very important one.
Following today's game, the #Tigers optioned RHP Joe Jiménez to Triple-A Toledo & purchased the contract of RHP William Cuevas from Toledo.
— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) April 13, 2017
Sanchez is currently occupying the long reliever role but the team is will be so hesitant to use him that it had to send down its most promising prospect to compensate. Not a great situation.
Hey, J.D.
In much happier news, here is J.D. Martinez hitting baseballs.
From all appearances his rehab is going swimmingly and word is that he will be targeting an early May return. Lost in the starting pitching excellence and bullpen concern is that the Tigers are 24th in the league in runs scored. Martinez’s bat will be a welcome sight.
For your free time
Miggy Bomb. The reinvention of Elvis Andrus. Did you know Mitch Moreland has hit doubles in seven straight games? Now you do. Carlos Correa will not be signing an extension any time soon. Obviously. Ryan Braun is definitely getting traded.