Detroit Tigers Links: Zumaya retires, Dirks likes speed & lineup still potent

Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Former Detroit Tigers pitcher Joel Zumaya retires from Major League Baseball – Bryan Rose

"Zumaya will end his Major League career with a 3.05 ERA, 1.35 WHIP and 210 strikeouts in 209 innings. Zumaya’s best season came during his rookie year in 2006 where he blew the opposition away thanks to his somewhat funky delivery and fireball stuff, throwing a career high 83.1 innings, fanning 97 batters in the process. He ended that season with a 1.94 ERA and 1.18 WHIP."

A sad end to Zoom’s career, though its not unexpected. It’s hard to argue that the buzz and energy that Zumaya brought to the ballpark (home and away) in 2006 was quite unlike anything we’ve seen around here since Mark “The Bird” Fidrych.

Andy Dirks thinks Detroit Tigers’ speed is upgraded – Vince Ellis, Detroit Free Press

"“I hate to see Prince go,” Dirks said. “He was a big part of the clubhouse, great player, great guy, but at the same time, that’s baseball. “It’s an ever-changing game, and everybody knows that, so we’re little different type of team. Maybe a little more speed, a little better defense maybe, and we’ll see how it pans out.” Davis had 45 stolen bases last season for the Toronto Blue Jays to finish second in the American League."

It’s interesting to note that if Dirks can finally have that breakout year, his value at the plate could limit Davis’ time, thus reducing the speed of the team just a bit.

MLB writer ranks Detroit Tigers among best lineups in game – Free Press

"“Different, no doubt, with Fielder gone. But any lineup with Miguel Cabrera in the middle is still awfully strong. … Maybe the Tigers won’t be as explosive as they were, but the runs will still come steadily.”"

The Tigers won’t be waiting around for the three-run homer anymore, but they figure to be able to manufacture runs a little more.