Detroit Tigers Links 12/2/13: Kinsler to dominate & Minnesota signs another arm

Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

5 Reasons Why Ian Kinsler Will Dominate With Detroit Tigers – Rant Sports

"Kinsler’s experience and consistency in a number of areas defensively and offensively will surely contribute to the Tigers’ postseason chances in a positive way, and it seems his style of play should be a perfect fit. The Tigers, despite their recent success, have been missing some key pieces over the last few years, and Kinsler can fill in multiple holes himself.Also, there’s a mental advantage to bringing in a consistent player that can play both defense and offense well. The Tigers will feel more complete with the addition of Kinsler, and his veteran presence in the locker room can only be helpful. And with the young Brad Ausmus taking over as manager, the Tigers will need all the veteran leadership they can get."

Jhonny Peralta got what he deserved – Patrick O’Kennedy, Bless You Boys

"Peralta arguably paid a steeper price than any other player who got caught in the Biogenesis scandal. He is one of only two players, the Rangers’ Nelson Cruz being the other, who lost meaningful games due to their suspensions. Peralta got exactly what he deserved. He got caught, paid the agreed penalty, became a free agent, and got paid as though PEDs had nothing to do with his performance, because they didn’t. If the Cardinals believed that Peralta’s numbers were enhanced by drug usage, they’d be foolish to pay him."

Let’s have some fun: Three-team trade ideas – David Schoenfield, ESPN.com

"Dodgers: Trade Andre Ethier (and cash), Corey Seager, Ross Stripling, acquire David PriceRays: Trade Price, acquire Rick Porcello, Seager, StriplingTigers: Trade Porcello, acquire Ethier (and cash)The Rays add Porcello to help them contend the next two years. Get him away from some of that porous Detroit defense and over to Tampa and their infield shifts and watch his ERA drop. He should receive about $8 million in arbitration for 2014, not too expensive for the Rays, and still has another season after that until free agency.The Tigers can play Ethier in left field while moving Drew Smyly into the rotation to replace Porcello, with Ethier providing a left-handed bat to help balance righties Miguel Cabrera, Austin Jackson, Kinsler and Torii Hunter."

Around the AL Central

Carlos Beltran appears to top Royals’ revised off-season wish list – Bob Dutton, The Kansas City Star

"The Yankees, Tigers, Red Sox, Rangers, Orioles and Mariners have shown interest in Beltran — and all appear to have far deeper pockets than the Royals, who are already bumping against their projected payroll limit after signing pitcher Jason Vargas.Even so, the Royals insist they will pursue Beltran and appear willing, unlike some suitors, to meet his preference for a three-year deal. Club officials believe they can make the dollars work, through subsequent moves, if the bidding doesn’t get too high."

Reports: Twins, Phil Hughes agree – AP

"Phil Hughes probably needed to leave hitter-friendly Yankee Stadium, and the Minnesota Twins were desperate for proven arms to strengthen a woeful rotation. The two parties have come together, hoping to help each other out.The Twins and Hughes agreed to a $24 million, three-year deal, a person with knowledge of the agreement told The Associated Press."