12/21/10
Signed Scot Drucker (RHP)
Signed Clay Timpner (OF)
Analysis: Drucker is coming back for his third season with the Tigers. He is currently pitching in the Mexican Winter League as he prepares for the 2011 season. He will likely find a spot on the Toledo roster this spring. Timpner is likely roster filler for the spring while the likes of Boesch, Thomas, Wells, and possibly Andy Dirks are in big league camp. Timpner is a solid runner and a decent defender, but he doesn't hit for much average over power, and doesn't profile as more than a minor league lifer.
Posted by: Mark, 12/21/10
12/14/10
Released Alfredo Figaro (RHP)
Analysis: Figaro was released as a formality, after his contract was officially sold to a Japanese baseball team. Figaro was likely to provide depth for the Tigers both in the rotation and the bullpen in 2011, and while he wasn't expected to be a serious contributor, the loss of depth could hurt.
Posted by: Mark, 12/14/10
12/13/10
Signed Chris Oxspring (RHP)
Signed Argenis Diaz (SS)
Signed Alexis Nunez (UT)
Signed Scott Thorman (1B)
Signed Brandon Tripp (OF)
Analysis: Oxspring has a chance to surprise if finally healthy. Few scouts have a lot of him over the last few years, but he could be an intriguing bullpen arm and a worthwhile gamble. Nunez was signed after a year away from the game, and he has spent quite a bit of time in the indy leagues recently. He has the ability to play all the infield position, as well as the outfield slots, providing plenty of versatility in spring training. Diaz and Thorman are both solid Triple-A players that will enter camp with a chance to make the squad. Tripp has an unorthodox swing and some pop in his bat with the ability to play all three outfield spots. There's a ton of swing and miss in his game, which leaves him lacking as a prospect.
Posted by: Mark, 12/13/10
12/06/10
Signed Omir Santos (C)
Signed John Bale (LHP)
Analysis: The Tigers got some insurance for their catcher position on Monday by signing Santos to a minor league deal. Santos is expected to be the most days catcher in Toledo, and can be an emergency option in Detroit should the need arise. Santos last played in the majors in 2009 for the Mets.
Posted by: Mark, 11/29/10
11/29/10
Designated Zach Miner (RHP) for assignment
Analysis: With the MLB offices back in action, the Tigers were forced to make the corresponding move necessary to add Victor Martinez to the 40-man roster. Miner missed all of last year after undergoing Tommy John surgery in May. Designating his contract for assignment will expose him to waivers, but given his uncertain health, he could be a good candidate to slip through waivers -- particularly while 40-man rosters are full in advance of the Rule 5 draft -- and make it onto the Toledo roster.
Posted by: Mark, 11/29/10
11/23/10
Signed Victor Martinez (C)
Analysis: The Tigers got one of their big offensive guns this winter by signing Martinez. According to Dave Dombrowski, he will play largely at DH, but will see some time behind the plate every week, and the occasional game at first base.
Posted by: Mark, 11/23/10
11/19/10
Purchased the contracts of Cale Iorg (SS), Charlie Furbush (LHP), Lester Oliveros (RHP), Jose Ortega (RHP), Brayan Villarreal (RHP), and Duane Below (LHP)
Signed Joaquin Benoit (RHP) to a three-year contract
Outrighted Fu-Te Ni (LHP) to Toledo
Signed Albert Alburquerque (RHP)
Analysis: All six players had their contracts purchased in order to add them to the 40-man roster and protect them from the Rule 5 draft. Each of the six players has been speculated by TigsTown to be under consideration for this move, with only Oliveros and Iorg being the only ones seeming exceedingly likely. With this addition, and the addition of Joaquin Benoit, the Tigers 40-man roster is now full, and any further additions to the team will require players like Zach Miner, Audy Ciriaco, Danny Worth, or Don Kelly to be removed from the 40-man.
Alburquerque is a classic DD signing, getting his fastball up to 98-99 at times. The MLB contract may seem bold, but that was the only way the Tigers were going to get him, and it is only a mild step beyond the MiLB deal with a 40-man roster spot that he was going to require to avoid the Rule 5 draft. Tigers fans shouldn't sleep on Ni, despite being outrighted off the 40-man. He is just as likely as any of the other lefties floating around in the organization to contribute in Detroit this year.
Posted by: Mark, 11/19/10
11/16/10
Signed Kyle Bloom (LHP)
Signed Pedro Aybar (RHP)
Signed Ricardo Ciriaco (RHP)
Signed Rafael Manzanillo (RHP)
Signed David Paulino (RHP)
Released Gino Aguirre (RHP)
Released Juan Espinoza (RHP)
Released Franklin Felida (C)
Analysis: Bloom was a Rule 5 pick by the Tigers a couple of years ago, but couldn't stick in the Detroit bullpen. A big lefty with good velocity and a history of injury troubles, the Tigers get another chance at him after signing him as a minor league free agent. Though he's started 131 of 138 games in his minor league career, don't be shocked if the Tigers give him a run in the bullpen as another potential big league lefty option to go along with Schlereth, Thomas, and Ni. The other four right-handers are all young DSL signings. Check back with TigsTown for scouting reports on those four as they become available.
Posted by: Mark, 11/16/10
11/08/10
Re-signed Max St. Pierre (C)
Re-signed Andy Bouchie (C)
Re-signed Ramon Garcia (LHP)
Analysis: All three players were signed to minor league deals for the 2011 season. St. Pierre could see some time in big league camp as an extra catcher for the Tigers. At the end of spring training, he will likely end up in a time-share in Toledo; possibly with Jeff Kunkel. Bouchie could land in either Lakeland or Erie, with his destination possibly hinging on where the Tigers opt to start Bryan Holaday in his first pro season. At this time, I would expect Bouchie to be John Murrian's backup in Erie. Garcia will serve as a spring training arm, and if he pitches well, could earn a bullpen slot in either Toledo or Erie.
Posted by: Mark, 11/08/10
11/08/10
Traded Brent Dlugach (SS) to the Boston Red Sox for cash considerations
Outrighted the contracts of Eddie Bonine (RHP), Jay Sborz (RHP), Jeff Frazier (OF), and Max St. Pierre (C) to Toledo
Eddie Bonine (RHP) elected free agency
Analysis: The mechanisms (trading Dlugach) varied, but the end result is all the same. The Tigers needed to clean up the 40-man roster and this was the most logical method of doing so. Bonine elected free agency, which makes sense for him. The other three will automatically become free agents this weekend, as they would be six-year minor league free agents.
Posted by: Mark, 11/05/10
10/21/10
Signed Brandon Inge (3B) to a two-year contract
Analysis: The Tigers said they wanted to bring Inge back, and they did just that. Assuming its not absurd money, I don't see any issue with this deal, considering its only two years, with an option for a third.
Posted by: Mark, 10/21/10
10/12/10
Released Alexis Espinoza (OF)
Released Chao-Ting Tang (OF)
Released Erik Crichton (RHP)
Released Chris Sedon (2B)
Released Londell Taylor (OF)
Released Tyson Kendrick (C)
Granted free agency to Casey Fien (RHP) and Enrique Gonzalez (RHP)
Analysis: The release of Espinoza caps a precipitous fall from grace. Having peaked as TigsTown's 14th best prospect after his breakout 2007 campaign in the VSL, Espinoza fell to 44th after the 2008 season, and completely out of the Top 50 after the 2009 season. His full-season debut with West Michigan was disastrous, and despite his power and strength, there's little else that would keep him as a viable prospect. Tang's release is less surprising, and hopefully the Tigers future exploits in the Asian talent market, will yield better results. Fien and Gonzalez were both eligible to request free agency after being removed from the 40-man roster for a second (or more) time.
Posted by: Mark, 10/12/10
09/09/10
Sean Finefrock (RHP) retired
Oscar Gomez (UT) retired
Signed Eduardo Rojas (RHP)
Signed Jhosep Pinto (OF)
Posted by: Mark, 09/09/10
09/07/10
Re-called Scott Sizemore (2B) from Toledo
Posted by: Mark, 09/07/10
09/05/10
Placed Kyle Peter (OF) on the 7-day DL
Posted by: Mark, 09/05/10
09/01/10
Re-called Robbie Weinhardt (RHP) from Toledo
Purchased the contract of Max St. Pierre (C) from Toledo
Out-righted Enrique Gonzalez (RHP) from the 40-man roster
Re-assigned Ramon Garcia (LHP) from Toledo to Erie
Posted by: Mark, 09/01/10
08/30/10
Activated Andy Dirks (OF) from the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Dixon Machado (SS) from GCL to Connecticut
Re-assigned Wilsen Palacios (RHP) from GCL to Connecticut
Re-assigned Jeff Ferrell (RHP) from GCL to Connecticut
Posted by: Mark, 08/30/10
08/29/10
Re-assigned Juaner Aguasvivas (1B) from GCL to Lakeland
Posted by: Mark, 08/29/10
08/26/10
Re-assigned Jon Kibler (LHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Jeff Barfield (RHP) from GCL to Lakeland
Posted by: Mark, 08/26/10
08/25/10
Re-assigned Jeff Barfield (RHP) from Lakeland to GCL
Posted by: Mark, 08/25/10
08/24/10
Re-assigned Thad Weber (RHP) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Bruce Rondon (RHP) from GCL to Lakeland
Re-assigned Cole Nelson (LHP) from GCL to Lakeland
Posted by: Mark, 08/24/10
08/23/10
Re-assigned Alexander Moreno (OF) from GCL to Lakeland
Re-assigned Kyle Peter (OF) from Lakeland to Erie
Placed Jay Sborz (RHP) on the 7-day DL (shoulder)
Re-assigned Adam Wilk (LHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Erik Crichton (RHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Posted by: Mark, 08/23/10
08/21/10
Signed Brian Barrow (LHP) and assigned him to Connecticut
Re-assigned Jeff Barfield (RHP) from GCL to Lakeland
Posted by: Mark, 08/21/10
08/19/10
Re-assigned Gabriel Purroy (C) from GCL to Lakeland
Re-assigned Luis Castillo (OF) from GCL to Lakeland
Assigned Nick Castellanos (3B) to GCL
Re-assigned John Murrian (C) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Brent Wyatt (OF) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Cale Iorg (SS) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Tyson Kendrick (C) from Erie to Connecticut
Re-assigned Ramon Garcia (LHP) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assgined Matt Mansilla (OF) from Lakeland to Erie
Placed Andy Dirks (OF) on the 7-day DL
Placed Luis Marte (RHP) on the 7-day DL
Placed Brent Dlugach (SS) on the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Chris White (OF) from Lakeland to Toledo
Activated Kyle Peter (OF) from the 7-day DL (shoulder)
Posted by: Mark, 08/20/10
08/19/10
Placed Jeff Kunkel (C) on the 7-day DL (knee)
Activated Andy Bouchie (C) from the Temporary Inactive list
Placed Kody Kaiser (OF) on the 7-day DL (shoulder)
Posted by: Mark, 08/19/10
08/18/10
Placed Carlos Guillen (2B) on the 15-day DL
Recalled Will Rhymes (2B) from Toledo
Re-assigned Shawn Roof (INF) from Erie to Toledo
Activated Nathan Newman (RHP) from the 7-day DL (shoulder)
Posted by: Mark, 08/18/10
08/17/10
Re-assigned Chris White (OF) from Toledo to Lakeland
Re-assigned Luis Marte (RHP) from Erie to Lakeland
Re-assigned Jay Voss (LHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Matt Little (RHP) from West Michigan to Lakeland
Re-assigned Gilbert Gomez (OF) from Lakeland to GCL
Posted by: Mark, 08/17/10
08/16/10
Optioned Jeff Frazier (OF) to Toledo
Recalled Daniel Schlereth (LHP) to Detroit
Signed Chance Ruffin (RHP)
Signed Drew Smyly (LHP)
Signed Nick Castellanos (3B)
Released Victor Dionisio (LHP)
Released Robert Diaz (RHP)
Released Wilfredo Hoyer (C)
Released Manuel Morandi (RHP)
Posted by: Mark, 08/16/10
08/12/10
Activated Brendan Wise (RHP) from the 7-day DL (shoulder)
Released Gilbert De La Vara (RHP)
Posted by: Mark, 08/12/10
08/08/10
Optioned Will Rhymes (2B) to Toledo
Activated Carlos Guillen (IF) from 15-day DL
Posted by: Wez, 08/08/10
08/05/10
Placed Ryan Strieby (OF) on the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Michael Bertram (1B/3B) from Erie to Toledo
Posted by: Mark, 08/05/10
08/03/10
Acquired Brandon Jones (OF) from Pittsburgh for a PTBNL or cash, and assigned him to Erie
Placed Fu-Te Ni (LHP) on the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Zach Simons (RHP) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Rob Waite (RHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Shawn Teufel (LHP) from West Michigan to Lakeland
Re-assigned Andy Dirks (OF) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Antonio Cruz (LHP) from Connecticut to West Michigan
Re-assigned Tim Mowry (RHP) from GCL to Connecticut
Posted by: Mark, 08/03/10
07/31/10
Traded Wilkin Ramirez (OF) for player to be named later or cash
Posted by: Wez, 07/31/10
07/30/10
Outrighted the contract of Casey Fien (RHP) to Toledo
Re-assigned Shawn Roof (INF) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Chris White (OF) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Brandon Douglas (2B) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Patrick Cooper (RHP) from Connecticut to West Michigan
Posted by: Mark, 07/29/10
07/29/10
Purchased contract of Jeff Frazier (OF) from Toledo
Designated Jeff Larish (1B/3B) for assignment
Posted by: Wez, 07/29/10
07/29/10
Acquired Jhonny Peralta (IF) from Cleveland Indians in exchange for Giovanni Soto (LHP)
Designated Wilkin Ramirez (OF) for assignment
Optioned Scott Sizemore (IF) to Toledo
Posted by: Wez, 07/29/10
07/26/10
Re-assigned Audy Ciriaco (3B) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Josh Rainwater (RHP) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Cesar Nicolas (1B/3B) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Bryan Pounds (3B) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Ramon Garcia (LHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Billy Nowlin (1B) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Matt Mansilla (OF) from Connecticut to Lakeland
Re-assigned Chris Sedon (2B) from Connecticut to Lakeland
Placed Nathan Newman (RHP) on the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Kevan Hess (RHP) from Connecticut to West Michigan
Posted by: Mark, 07/26/10
07/24/10
Placed Magglio Ordonez (OF) on 15-day DL (ankle)
Placed Carlos Guillen (IF) on 15-day DL (calf)
Purchased contract of Jeff Larish (IF) from Toledo
Purchased contract of Will Rhymes (IF) from Toledo
Released Billy Buckner (RHP)
Designated Casey Fien (RHP) for assignment
Posted by: Wez, 07/24/10
07/21/10
Recalled Scott Sizemore (IF) from Toledo
Optioned Casey Fien (RHP) to Toledo
Re-assigned Charlie Furbush (LHP) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Brayan Villarreal (RHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Justin Henry (2B) from Erie to Toledo
Activated Cesar Nicolas (1B/3B) from the 7-day DL
Placed Michael Bertram (1B/3B) on the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Samir Rijo (OF) from GCL to Lakeland
Re-assigned Chris White (OF) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Ramon Garcia (LHP) from Erie to Lakeland
Signed Jesus Petit (OF)
Posted by: Wez, 07/21/10
07/20/10
Placed Brandon Inge (3B) on the 15-day DL (hand)
Recalled Casey Fien (RHP) from Toledo
Posted by: Mark, 07/20/10
07/19/10
Re-assigned Michael Torrealba (RHP) from Connecticut to Lakeland
Re-assigned Pat McKenna (INF) from GCL to Lakeland
Re-assigned Sean Finefrock (RHP) from GCL to Connecticut
Named Carmelo Jaime a GCL coach
Re-assigned Josh Rainwater (RHP) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Jose Ortega (RHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Tyler Conn (LHP) retired
Recalled Armando Galarraga (RHP) from Toledo
Optioned Andy Oliver (LHP) to Toledo
Placed Billy Buckner (RHP) on the 7-day DL
Posted by: Mark, 07/19/10
07/15/10
Activated Max St. Pierre (C) from the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Jeff Kunkel (C) from Toledo to Erie
Released Angel Flores (C)
Jon Weber Retired
Re-assigned Ben Guez (OF) from Lakeland to Toledo
Activated Shawn Roof (INF) from 7-day DL
Re-assigned Bryan Pounds (3B) from Erie to Lakeland
Signed Jack Duffey (LHP)
Activated Giovanni Soto (LHP) from the 7-day DL (elbow)
Re-assigned Miguel Mejia (RHP) from West Michigan to Connecticut
Posted by: Mark, 07/15/10
07/13/10
Re-assigned Raul Leiva (C/1B) from DSL to VSL
Re-instated Jordan Lennerton (1B) from the Temporary Inactive list
Re-assigned Corey Jones (2B) from GCL to West Michigan
Re-assigned Carlos Alvarado (RHP) from VSL to DSL
Released Frank Penalver (RHP)
Re-assigned Chris Sedon (2B) from West Michigan to Connecticut
Posted by: Mark, 07/13/10
07/12/10
Signed Gilbert De La Vara (LHP) and assigned him to Toledo
Re-assigned Josh Rainwater (RHP) from Toledo to Erie
Re-assigned Jay Voss (RHP) from Erie to Lakeland
Re-assigned Alexander Moreno (OF) from Lakeland to GCL
Posted by: Mark, 07/12/10
07/08/10
Activated Audy Ciriaco (3B) from the 7-day DL (wrist)
Placed Shawn Roof (INF) on the 7-day DL
Assigned Bryan Holladay (C) to Lakeland
Assigned Alex Burgos (LHP) to GCL
Assigned Corey Jones (2B) to GCL
Placed Jordan Lennerton (1B) on the Temporary Inactive list
Signed Cole Nelson (P) and assigned him to the GCL
Posted by: Mark, 07/08/10
07/07/10
Re-assigned Carmelo Jaime (INF) from Erie to Lakeland
Signed Corey Jones (2B)
Re-assigned Pat McKenna (INF) from Lakeland to GCL
Activated Cale Iorg (SS) from the 7-day DL (hamstring)
Posted by: Mark, 07/07/10
07/06/10
Activated Scott Sizemore (2B) from the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Justin Henry (UT) from Toledo to Erie
Released Ruddy Lugo (RHP)
Nolan Moody (LHP) retired
Re-assigned Tyler White (RHP) from GCL to Connecticut
Signed Alejandro Castillo (LHP)
Signed Henry Mejia (RHP)
Signed Arturo Santana (C)
Signed Danry Vasquez (OF)
Signed Vijandrick Jacobs (LHP)
Signed Fernando Chalas (RHP)
Signed Alex Burgos (LHP)
Re-assigned Ben Guez (OF) from Erie to Lakeland
Placed Lance Baxter (LHP) on the Temporarily Inactive list
Elvin Soto (1B/3B) retired
Optioned Armando Galarraga (RHP) to Toledo
Purchased the contract of Robbie Weinhardt (RHP)
Posted by: Mark, 07/06/10
07/04/10
Activated Ryan Perry (RHP) from the 15-day DL (shoulder)
Optioned Casey Fien (RHP) to Toledo
Placed Giovanni Soto (LHP) on the 7-day DL (elbow)
Re-assigned Luis Sanz (RHP) from Connecticut to West Michigan
Posted by: Mark, 07/04/10
07/02/10
Recalled Daniel Schlereth (LHP) to Detroit
Posted by: Mark, 07/02/10
07/01/10
Activated Robbie Weinhardt (RHP) from the 7-day DL (shoulder)
Re-assigned Pat McKenna (INF) from GCL to Lakeland
Re-assigned Antonio Cruz (LHP) from GCL to Connecticut
Assigned Jeff Barfield (RHP) to GCL
Placed Jade Todd (LHP) on the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Jordan Pratt (RHP) from Connecticut to West Michigan
Placed Cale Iorg (SS) on the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Carmelo Jaime (INF) from Lakeland to Erie
Posted by: Mark, 07/01/10
06/30/10
Re-assigned Bryan Pounds (3B) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Alexander Moreno (OF) from GCL to Lakeland
Placed Audy Ciriaco (INF) on the 7-day DL
Assigned Patrick Cooper (RHP) to Connecticut
Signed Jordan Pratt (RHP) and assigned him to Connecticut
Re-assigned Les Smith (OF) from GCL to Connecticut
Re-assigned Lance Baxter (LHP) from Connecticut to GCL
Signed Jeff Barfield (RHP)
Optioned Fu-Te Ni (LHP) to Toledo
Posted by: Mark, 06/30/10
06/29/10
Placed Joel Zumaya (RHP) on the 7-day DL
Purchased the contract of Casey Fien (RHP)
Re-assigned Matt Little (RHP) from Connecticut to West Michigan
Re-assigned Jeff Rowland (OF) from Connecticut to West Michigan
Posted by: Mark, 06/29/10
06/28/10
Re-assigned Ramon Lebron (RHP) from West Michigan to GCL
Released Luis Salas (OF)
Analysis: Lebron has been struggling with his command for weeks now, and the move to the GCL may be prudent to save any confidence he has remaining. The ceiling remains high for Lebron, simply because of his powerful fastball, but he's still very, very raw. Salas has never translated raw tools to success, and that ultimately led to his demise in the organization.
Posted by: Mark, 06/28/10
06/27/10
Re-assigned Nolan Mody (LHP) from West Michigan to Connecticut
Re-assigned Miguel Mejia (RHP) from Lakeland to West Michigan
Re-assigned Shawn Teufel (LHP) from Connecticut to West Michigan
Activated Brayan Villarreal (RHP) from the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Lester Oliveros (RHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Jared Gayhart (RHP) from Erie to Lakeland
Posted by: Mark, 06/27/10
06/25/10
Purchased the contract of Andy Oliver (LHP)
Optioned Jay Sborz (RHP) to Toledo
Re-assigned Zach Simons (RHP) from Toledo to Erie
Re-assigned Rob Waite (RHP) from Erie to Lakeland
Analysis: Oliver has been called up as expected, and after Rick Porcello's dominating start with Toledo last night, it's looking like his stay might not last long. The trickle down effect doesn't really contain any surprises at this juncture.
Posted by: Mark, 06/25/10
06/24/10
Placed Scott Sizemore (2B) on the 7-day DL (hip)
Re-assigned Justin Henry (2B) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Ben Guez (OF) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Samir Rijo (OF) from GCL to Lakeland
Analysis: No word yet on how serious Sizemore's injury is, but he's been hitting pretty well, so I'm skeptical it is anything too serious. Rijo is just a place holder in Lakeland, and High-A is likely far too advanced for him at this juncture.
Posted by: Mark, 06/24/10
06/23/10
Re-assigned Alden Carrithers (2B) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Rawley Bishop (1B) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Kody Kaiser (OF) from Lakeland to Erie
Activated Bryan Pounds (3B) from the 7-day DL (oblique)
Re-assigned Jordan Lennerton (1B) from West Michigan to Lakeland
Re-assigned Carmelo Jaime (INF) from Connecticut to Lakeland
Re-assigned Jacob Turner (RHP) from West Michigan to Lakeland
Re-assigned Wilsen Palacios (RHP) from Lakeland to GCL
Re-assigned Zach Simons (RHP) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Matt Hoffman (LHP) from Toledo to Erie
Released Ben Johnson (OF)
Released Josh Burrus (OF)
Released Ronnie Bourquin (1B/3B)
Signed Rob Brantly (C)
Signed Clay Jones (1B)
Signed Tyler White (RHP)
Re-assigned Charlie Furbush (LHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Dan Gentzler (RHP) from Connecticut to GCL
Re-assigned Julio Rodriguez (C) from West Michigan to Connecticut
Analysis: Tons of moves across the system, and more to come as the corresponding moves in Erie have yet to be announced. There should also be some movement onto the West Michigan roster. The big move is the trio (likely to be a foursome by week's end) moving to Erie. It will be a big test for all three. Turner moving to Lakeland is an excellent move. While he has not dominated this year, this is an opportunity to truly test him in advance of another aggressive assignment next year; likely to Double-A.
Posted by: Mark, 06/23/10
06/20/10
Optioned Rick Porcello (RHP) to Toledo
Recalled Jay Sborz (RHP) from Toledo
Analysis: After another unspectacular outing from Rick Porcello, the Tigers elected to option Porcello down to Toledo to try and work out his issues there. Sborz long and difficult road to the big leagues has finally reached its end, after excelling as the Mud Hens' closer this season with 15 saves.
Posted by: Wez, 06/20/10
06/19/10
Signed Drew Gagnier (RHP)
Signed Dan Gentzler (RHP)
Signed James Meador (1B)
Signed Steve Crnkovich (RHP)
Signed Tim Mowry (RHP)
Analysis: Gagnier and Gentzler will both help in the Connecticut bulllpen, while Meador will still be out a while with a broken arm; after which he is likely to debut in the GCL.
Posted by: Mark, 06/19/10
06/18/10
Signed Patrick Cooper (RHP)
Signed Les Smith (OF)
Analysis: Despite being selected in the teens on draft day, Cooper has some upside, and could be a bit of a sleeper for the Tigers. His assignment is still yet to be determined. Smith should be assigned to the GCL to start his career.
Posted by: Mark, 06/18/10
06/17/10
Signed Bo McClendon (OF)
Signed Tyler Clark (P)
Signed Patrick Leyland (C)
Signed Patrick Lawson (RHP)
Re-assigned Billy Alvino (C) from West Michigan to Lakeland
Re-assigned Julio Rodriguez (C) from lakeland to West Michigan
Re-assigned Gabriel Purroy (C) from Lakeland to EST
Activated John Murrian (C) from the 7-day DL (wrist)
Re-assigned Wilsen Palacios (RHP) from EST to Lakeland
Analysis: McClendon will be playing in the GCL this summer, and in all honesty, he doesn't project as much of a prospect. Leyland will be joining him in the GCL, and his progress will be interesting to watch. Clark and Lawson are both heading to the NYPL to start their careers. Lawson is a non-drafted free agent out of UNC-Charlotte.
Posted by: Mark, 06/17/10
06/16/10
Re-assigned Jon Kibler (LHP) from Erie to Lakeland
Re-assigned Rob Waite (RHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Ronnie Bourquin (1B/3B) from West Michigan to Erie
Placed Cesar Nicolas (1B/3B) on the 7-day DL
Placed Brayan Villarreal (RHP) on the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Eric Roof (C) from West Michigan to Connecticut
Signed Tony Plagman (1B)
Assigned Tony Plagman (1B) to West Michigan
Re-assigned Luis Sanz (C) from Lakeland to West Michigan
Re-assigned Gabriel Purroy (C) from EST to Lakeland
Analysis: This is rumored to be just the start of numerous roster moves. With the FSL All-Star game in the rear view mirror, there could be some players moving up to Erie, and some other players from both Lakeland and West Michigan could be re-assigned as the short-season rosters get settled in the next couple of days. Check back for all the latest roster updates.
Posted by: Mark, 06/16/10
06/14/10
Signed Pete Miller (SS)
Signed Matt Perry (3B)
Signed Brennan Smith (RHP)
Signed Tyson Kendrick (C)
Signed Ryan Soares (INF)
Signed Josh Ashtenbrenner (INF)
Signed Jeff Rowland (OF)
Signed Shawn Teufel (LHP)
Signed Logan Hoch (LHP)
Signed Matt Little (RHP)
Released Luis Palacios (INF)
Signed Lance Baxter (LHP)
Signed Ryan Enos (OF)
Analysis: Miller will make his pro debut int he GCL, while Perry and Smith will both likely start in the NYPL with the Connecticut Tigers. Many more signings are expected to be announced in the coming days, so check back for more updates.
No roster move attached to this, but it is important to note that Melvin Mercedes went under the knife for Tommy John surgery on Friday, and he will miss the remainder of the year, and potentially some of next year.
Posted by: Mark, 06/14/10
06/12/10
Agreed to terms with PJ Polk (OF)
Nolan Cain (RHP) retired
Analysis: Polk will fly to Lakeland tomorrow to complete his physical and sign his contract. He should be heading to Connecticut for the NYPL season.
Cain's retirement comes after he hit the DL with a partially torn UCL in his right elbow. He was not able to throw without pain from 90-feet, and it was not improving. Rather than face surgery and rehab again, he has opted to retire.
Posted by: Mark, 06/12/10
06/11/10
Re-assigned Matt Hoffman (LHP) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Cory Hamilton (RHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Jose Ortega (RHP) from West Michigan to Lakeland
Re-assigned Richard Zumaya (RHP) from EST to West Michigan
Agreed to terms with Jeff Ferrell (RHP)
Analysis: With Enrique Gonzalez now in Detroit, a string of moves were made to fill in some gaps on rosters. Hoffman is a bit of a surprise in Toledo, but the organization likes him and he shouldn't be phased too much by the move. The rest of the string provides useful bullpen arms in all three spots. Zumaya has been showing good progress in EST and some of the coaches there have been impressed with the strides he's made.
Ferrell was the Tigers 26th rounder this week, and according to TigsTown's Jason Avery, he's heading to Lakeland this weekend to finalize his contract.
Posted by: Mark, 06/11/10
06/10/10
Placed Ryan Perry (RHP) on the 15-day DL
Purchased the contract of Enrique Gonzalez (RHP)
Signed Kyle Ryan (LHP)
Analysis: Hopefully this time on the DL allows Perry to get things right and start commanding his fastball again. Gonzalez is a big league veteran, and while he isn't spectacular, he should provide some reasonable innings for the Tigers.
Ryan has opted to spurn his commitment to USF and join the Tigers. His signing is contingent upon passing a physical, but he should be in the GCL on opening day.
Posted by: Mark, 06/10/10
06/09/10
Assigned Ben Johnson (OF) to Erie
Re-assigned Chris White (OF) from Erie to Lakeland
Released Josh Workman (OF)
Analysis: The cascade effect strikes again. White is an org guy at this point, so he's bouncing around as necessary. Workman just wasn't the same player he was before the injuries in college, which is unfortunate, because that player would have been fun to watch.
Posted by: Mark, 06/09/10
06/08/10
Signed Ben Johnson (OF)
Re-assigned Deik Scram (OF) from Toledo to Erie
Re-assigned Wilkin Ramirez (OF) from Erie to Toledo
Analysis: Ramirez needed to get back to Triple-A, and with Clete Thomas out for the year after micro-fracture surgery on his knee, he's going to get ABs as a center fielder everyday. He's been crushing Double-A pitching, so it should be fun to see how he handles another tour through the IL. Johnson was managed by Erie manager Phil Nevin in the indy leagues last year, so that familiarity likely led to the signing.
Posted by: Mark, 06/08/10
06/06/10
Designated Adam Everett (SS) for assignment
Recalled Danny Worth (SS/2B) from Toledo
Analysis: These moves won't be official until Tuesday, but they are important enough to note right now. Everett's bat has been ice cold, and he's been in a bit of a defensive slump so far this year. The Tigers simply couldn't justify carrying his offensive ineptitude any longer without the Gold Glove caliber defense. Worth should fill in capably as a defender at both middle infield positions, and Ramon Santiago can help as well. People expecting significant offensive contributions from Worth, may be disappointed, but he can't be any worse than Everett has been.
Posted by: Mark, 06/06/10
06/05/10
Re-assigned Chao-Ting Tang (OF) from Lakeland to EST
Released Sandy De La Cruz (RHP)
Signed Jorge Medina (LHP)
Activated Brandon Douglas (2B) and re-assigned him from Erie to Lakeland
Re-assigned Carmelo Jaime (INF) from Lakeland to EST
Analysis: Tang is being removed from the Lakeland roster to make room for outfielder Ben Guez to return from Toledo. Though he's a great makeup guy with some defensive ability, his offense has a long way to go to make him a legitimate prospect. De La Cruz was released right before the DSL season. Medina was signed and placed on the DSL roster. More details to come, including his scouting report.
Posted by: Mark, 06/05/10
06/03/10
Placed Max St. Pierre (C) on the 7-day DL (finger)
Re-assigned Jeff Kunkel (C) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Angel Flores (C) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Luis Sanz (C) from EST to Lakeland
Activated Jeff Larish (1B) from the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Ben Guez (OF) from Toledo to Lakeland
Analysis: As is always the case when a catcher is lost, a catching shuffle is soon to follow. There's really nothing of note here outside of the move to send Luis Sanz to Lakeland. He will make his stateside debut in the Florida State League, which should be a stern test for the youngster.
Posted by: Mark, 06/03/10
06/02/10
Activated Josh Workman (OF) from the 7-day DL (groin)
Analysis: As Dan Lunetta mentioned when Workman went down, the groin strain that put him on the DL was nothing serious. His return to the lineup gives manager Andy Barkett even more options in his lineup.
Posted by: Mark, 06/02/10
06/01/10
Traded Dontrelle Willis (LHP) and cash to the Arizona Diamondbacks for Billy Buckner (RHP)
Optioned Billy Buckner (RHP) to Toledo
Activated Ronnie Bourquin (3B/1B) from the Restricted List and assigned him to West Michigan
Signed Jairo Sanchez (RHP)
Analysis: Bourquin is likely on his last legs with the organization, after several problems away from the field. He hasn't lived up to his lofty draft status, even when on the field, but he could still be a solid organizational bat on the infield corners. Sanchez is a 5-11, 205 pound righty that was signed to help out in the VSL this summer.
Anything in return for Dontrelle Willis is a good thing, and Buckner is even a bit more than that. Buckner has had an up and down career, but he still has the raw stuff to be a solid big leaguer. He can get up to 94 on occasion, and sits in the low-90s with a potential plus breaker.
Posted by: Mark, 06/01/10
05/30/10
Designated Dontrelle Willis (LHP) for assignment
Re-called Max Scherzer (RHP) from Toledo
Analysis: The move likely indicates that Willis is done with the Tigers, unless he decides to accept a minor league assignment. While Willis had been on-and-off effective, his continued wildness seemed to continue to plague him, and with Scherzer proving effective in Toledo, the Tigers decided now was the time to make the move. The Tigers still have ten days to trade Willis, or it's still possible he could accept the minor league assignment and head to Toledo to try and improve, though given his experience, that seems unlikely.
Posted by: Wez, 05/30/10
05/28/10
Activated Carlos Guillen (UT) from the 15-day DL
Optioned Danny Worth (IF) to Toledo
Analysis: The Carlos Guillen at second base attempt begins Friday night in Detroit as Guillen will attempt his fifth new position as a Detroit Tiger. Danny Worth showed well in his limited appearance in Detroit, and has earned the confidence of the Tigers' brass that if they need a utility infielder again this season, Worth can be their guy.
Posted by: Wez, 05/28/10
05/28/10
Re-assigned Chris Sedon (IF) from EST to West Michigan
Re-assigned Jimmy Gulliver (IF) from EST to West Michigan
Re-assigned Jared Wesson (LHP) from EST to West Michigan
Re-assigned Zach Samuels (RHP) from EST to West Michigan
Re-assigned Luis Palacios (IF) from West Michigan to EST
Re-assigned Elvin Soto (1B) from West Michigan to EST
Re-assigned Melvin Mercedes (RHP) from West Michigan to EST
Re-assigned Luis Sanz (RHP) from West Michigan to EST
Released Mike Gosse (IF)
Analysis: Big shake-up in West Michigan as they attempt to jump start the Whitecaps who have been off to an uncharacteristically slow start. While neither Mercedes or Sanz had been the worst on the staff, they're both youngsters that haven't handled the push up to full-season ball as well as hoped. Palacios and Soto meanwhile were among the group that weren't even hitting .200 for the 'Caps, so a shift to see if guys like Gulliver and Sedon can help certainly can't hurt at this point.
Posted by: Wez, 05/28/10
05/27/10
Activated Ruddy Lugo (RHP) from the 7-day DL
Analysis: There's really not much to say here. After taking a liner off the head, he was placed on the DL until they could be sure he was okay. He returns to action, and the only thing to watch closely will be to see if he's a little gun shy.
Posted by: Mark, 05/27/10
05/26/10
Placed Robbie Weinhardt (RHP) on the 7-day DL (shoulder)
Re-assigned Brendan Wise (RHP) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Matt Hoffman (LHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Analysis: Tough break for Weinhardt, regardless of the severity of the injury. He was in line to get a big league look this year, and now that will be an uncertain situation. Wise makes sense for this challenge, particularly for a 6th to 8th inning guy. He can work multiple innings, and this is a good test for a guy that still had middle man potential at the big league level. The Hoffman move is a little perplexing, but he's been very good out of the bullpen in Lakeland, and they do like him long term, so nothing wrong with a challenge.
Posted by: Mark, 05/26/10
05/23/10
Activated Lester Oliveros (RHP) from the 7-day DL (bicep)
Re-assigned Jimmy Gulliver (INF) from Lakeland to EST
Analysis: Gulliver was just a temporary fix in Lakeland anyway, and the return of Oliveros should help the club. He should be watched closely to see if his bicep problem is actually behind him. The injury was not significant, even the second time, as he rehabbed with the Flying Tigers' staff, instead of the developmental/rehab staff on the back fields.
Posted by: Mark, 05/23/10
05/22/10
Optioned Casper Wells (OF) from Detroit to Toledo
Recalled Ryan Raburn (UT) from Toledo to Detroit
Placed Jeff Larish (1B) on 7-day DL (groin)
Assigned Carlos Guillen (IF) to Toledo on rehab assignment
Analysis: Casper Wells held his own in Detroit, but Ryan Raburn has more versatility, and isn't gaining anything by playing in Toledo. Certainly not a knock on Wells, but rather a realization that Raburn needs to be in Detroit. No corresponding move yet, but with Guillen about to start his rehab assignment, the team will have an extra player available and so the interim need for an extra position player isn't there.
Posted by: Wez, 05/22/10
05/21/10
Placed Bryan Pounds (3B) on 7-day DL
Placed Josh Workman (IF) on 7-day DL
Re-assigned Francisco Martinez (3B) from EST to Lakeland
Re-assigned Jimmy Gulliver (IF) from EST to Lakeland
Analysis: Two more injuries in Lakeland as the disabled list for the Flying Tigers extends into double digits. This will be a challenge for Martinez, much like the one they placed on Daniel Fields earlier in the spring when injuries forced him onto the Lakeland roster.
Posted by: Wez, 05/21/10
05/19/10
Activated Ryan Strieby (OF/1B) from the 7-day DL (wrist)
Placed Phil Dumatrait (LHP) on the inactive list
Signed Jose Rodriguez (RHP)
Analysis: Dumatrait's contract is in the process of being sold to a Korean team, so he is likely on his way out the door. Strieby's return will be watched closely by coaches and fans, both to see if his wrist is healthy, and see if he can get his bat going after a rough start. Rodriguez gives the VSL Tigers an extra arm in the bullpen over the course of a long season. Check back with TigsTown for details on his scouting report.
Posted by: Mark, 05/19/10
05/17/10
Placed Clete Thomas (OF) on the 7-day DL (knee)
Analysis: Thomas' knee has been acting up for much of the year, and as the Toledo Blade reports, he flew to Colorado for an MRI on Monday.
Posted by: Mark, 05/17/10
05/16/10
Optioned Max Scherzer (RHP) to Toledo
Optioned Scott Sizemore (2B) to Toledo
Recalled Armando Galarraga (RHP) from Toledo
Purchased the contract of Danny Worth (INF) from Toledo
Analysis: Scherzer and Sizemore have both been struggling mightily this year, and though the timing of the moves is surprising, both could probably use an opportunity to re-set. Galarraga's arrival in Detroit was expected, as he will fill the starting vacancy this afternoon. Danny Worth's call-up was a big surprise, with numerous scouts telling me they are 'amazed' and 'floored' by the decision.
Posted by: Mark, 05/16/10
05/14/10
Recalled Casper Wells (OF) from Toledo
Optioned Alfredo Figaro (RHP) to Toledo
Analysis: Wells' stint in the big leagues projects to be fairly short at this time, with most prognosticators believing he will head back to Toledo on Sunday in exchange for a starter to fill the TBA role that currently is assigned to that game with the Red Sox. Figaro will likely be back in Detroit at some point this year, but there are certainly some things he can continue to refine in Toledo.
Posted by: Mark, 05/14/10
05/13/10
Re-assigned Anthony Shawler (RHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Angel Flores (C) from Toledo to Lakeland
Re-assigned Max St. Pierre (C) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Andy Bouchie (C) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Wilfredo Ramirez (LHP) from EST to Lakeland
Signed Confesor Lara (OF)
Released Nelson Pierre (3B)
Released Vladimir Ortiz (RHP)
Announced that Sean Finefrock (RHP) has un-retired
Analysis: Shawler gets a chance in Erie (well deserved) as a result of the Figaro and Gagnier promotions. Moving St. Pierre, Bouchie, and Flores around is a catchup move to respond to the emergency actions that took place when Rabelo hit the DL. This might also be indicative of a longer term injury with Rabelo's knee.
Posted by: Mark, 05/13/10
05/12/10
Released Jason Waddell (LHP)
Recalled Alfredo Figaro (RHP) from Toledo
Optioned Ryan Raburn (UT) to Toledo
Re-assigned LJ Gagnier (RHP) from Erie to Toledo
Analysis: Waddell was interesting enough, in a quirky left-hander sort of way, but I'm not sure he had much of a future in the organization.
Figaro to Detroit gives the Tigers an extra arm for the double header today, and Raburn can come back in ten days. I expect the Tigers to bring him back as soon as they can. Gagnier back fills Figaro's slot in the Toledo rotation, and there should be more moves coming once the cascade effect moves down the ladder.
Posted by: Mark, 05/12/10
05/10/10
Placed Lester Oliveros (RHP) on the 7-day DL ()
Re-assigned Cory Hamilton (RHP) from West Michigan to Lakeland
Re-assigned Nolan Moody (RHP) from EST to West Michigan
Placed Jason Waddell (LHP) on the Restricted List
Analysis: This is the second time Oliveros has hit the DL in just a few weeks, which automatically elevates the level of concern over the long term health of his right arm. He's a bit of a max effort guy, and that's always a bit concerning. This all provides a nice opportunity for non-drafted free agent Nolan Moody; a local product from Michigan State. Moody has some stuff and enough knowledge of pitching that he could carve out a niche as a middle reliever.
Posted by: Mark, 05/10/10
05/05/10
Activated Jacob Turner (RHP) from the 7-day DL (forearm)
Placed Nolan Cain (RHP) on the 7-day DL (elbow)
Analysis: People are going to be watching turner closely as he returns from forearm tightness. I've been assured by multiple sources that this was nothing to worry about, and I'm going to expect excellent results now that he's back on the mound.
Posted by: Mark, 05/05/10
05/03/10
Michael Morrison (RHP) on the 7-day DL (forearm)
Re-assigned Miguel Mejia (RHP) from EST to Lakeland
Analysis: In talking with Morrison, he felt some tightness in his last outing. He finished his inning and felt his forearm was a little too tight, and he notified the coaching staff. There doesn't seem to be a problem going forward, and Morrison was optimistic he could be back on the mound in a little over the minimum.
Posted by: Mark, 05/03/10
05/02/10
Placed John Murrian (C) on the 7-day DL (wrist)
Placed Austin Wood (LHP) on the 7-day DL (shoulder)
Activated Lester Oliveros (RHP) from the 7-day DL (biceps)
Re-assigned Julio Rodriguez (C) from EST to Lakeland
Placed Mike Rabelo (C) on the 7-day DL
Re-assigned Angel Flores (C) from EST to Toledo
Analysis: Wodd's shoulder is still causing problems in Lakeland, and there's some decisions to be made in the coming weeks. Oliveros is back quickly as expected, and there's no real reason to be concerned. I'm being told Murrian's knee isn't anything to worry about either.
Posted by: Mark, 05/02/10
04/26/10
Placed Jacob Turner (RHP) on the 7-day DL (forearm)
Re-assigned Cory Hamilton (RHP) from EST to West Michigan
Analysis: The alarm surrounding Turner's DL stint is likely to be rampant, and the nay-sayers will likely have a field day. My sources insist this is just extreme caution, and they don't believe there is anything to be concerned about when considering his long term health.
Posted by: Wez, 04/26/10
04/25/10
Placed Ryan Strieby (1B/OF) on 7-day DL (wrist)
Placed Ruddy Lugo (RHP) on 7-day DL (head)
Re-assigned Deik Scram (OF) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Chris White (OF) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Chao-Ting Tang (OF) from EST to Lakeland
Re-assigned Ryan Ketchner (LHP) from Erie to Toledo
Re-assigned Ramon Garcia (LHP) from Lakeland to Erie
Re-assigned Michael Morrison (RHP) from EST to Lakeland
Activated Clete Thomas (OF) from 7-day DL
Analysis: The Scram promotion was to replace Boesch being called up, so there's likely still to be a corresponding move to replace the spot opened by Strieby, who is drawing more concern as his left wrist is acting up again, almost two years after the initial injury. Lugo is recovering after taking a line drive off the head in Friday evening's game, but likely won't return to action anytime soon after spending the night in the hospital. There are likely additional moves on the way to back fill the now open slots from the movement.
Posted by: Wez, 04/25/10
04/23/10
Placed Carlos Guillen (OF) on 15-day DL (hamstring)
Recalled Brennan Boesch (OF) from Toledo
Activated Austin Wood (LHP) from the 7-day DL
Analysis: The Guillen injury is unfortunate, but it gives the Tigers a chance to ride a red-hot bat from the minor leagues. Boesch has been killing the ball lately, and he may provide some of the lefty power this lineup provides. It should be an interesting stretch for Boesch, as he still has significant holes in his swing and some trouble with the strike zone, but the power is real.
Posted by: Mark, 04/23/10
04/22/10
Placed Lester Oliveros (RHP) on the 7-day DL (biceps)
Placed Tyler Stohr (RHP) on the 7-day DL (elbow)
Re-assigned Rob Waite (RHP) from EST to Lakeland
Analysis: We're still working on details of the injuries to Stohr and Oliveros, and we will hopefully have something to report later today. Waite was actually a topic of conversation with someone on the development staff just yesterday. He has really stood out during extended spring training. His consistency has improved, both with his command and his breaking ball, and he's been sitting in the 88-92 range with his fastball. The other move has yet to be announced, and we should have that for you as soon as it is available.
Update: According to Tigers Director of Minor League Operations Dan Lunetta, Stohr has an elbow strain and will be evaluated this week by the team doctors in Detroit. Oliveros is suffering from some biceps soreness, and they plan to rest him for a short stint. The other pitcher to be added to the Lakeland roster should be announced in the next few days.
Away from the comments from Lunetta, a few other calls have led me to believe that things don't look good for Stohr right now. It's a wait and see game until the doctors have a chance to evaluate him and you see how the arm reacts to some rest and rehab, but it's all pretty iffy right now. As for Oliveros, it's been indicated to me that he may not need much more than the minimum before he comes back.
Posted by: Mark, 04/22/10
04/20/10
Activated Audy Ciriaco (SS/3B) from the 7-day DL (wrist)