Detroit Tigers Links: Avila lefty struggles, Dirks rehab & James McCann’s future

Tigers’ Alex Avila continues to struggle against lefties – John Lowe, Detroit Free Press

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"Left-handed hitting Alex Avila has been struggling mightily against left-handed pitchers. Manager Brad Ausmus was asked after Friday night’s game whether at some point he will have to consider having Avila not play any more against southpaws. Avila entered Saturday hitting .203 against left-handed pitching, with 31 strikeouts in 74 at-bats. Bryan Holaday, a right-handed hitting catcher, entered Saturday hitting .359 against right-handers but only .191 against left-handers."

Avila rode the pine yesterday with lefty Hector Santiago on the mound for the Angels, but it may have been more of a regular day off scenario than anything else. As long as Avila is playing well defensively, he’ll get the majority of the starts regardless of the opposing pitcher. Like it or not.

More on Avila…

Could James McCann Be The Detroit Tigers’ Catcher Of The Future? – Brad Faber, Rant Sports

"McCann, who is just 24 years old, is currently slashing .297/.350/.403 with 26 doubles, two home runs, five stolen bases and 40 RBIs. McCann has been known for his defense, however, and this season has been no exception. He has yielded a .991 fielding percentage and thrown out 41 percent of would-be base stealers thus far in 2014. That said, he has certainly begun to draw some attention to his bat as well."

Alex Avila has one more year of arbitration in 2015 and then he will be a free agent in 2016. The Tigers will have to decide what the future of the position will be with a young Bryan Holaday and McCann’s solid numbers in Toledo. Do they sign Avila long term and trade one of their youngsters? Trade Avila or let him walk? And please don’t cry nepotism.

Detroit Tigers outfielder Andy Dirks could resume injury rehab assignment early next week – James Schmehl, MLive.com

"Tigers manager Brad Ausmus confirmed Saturday that Dirks is progressing well in Lakeland, Florida and could resume an injury rehab assignment early next week."

I’m not a Dirks guy, so to speak, thus I’m not really looking forward to his return. I can’t think of an upside Dirks brings to the outfield log jam. Feel free to tell me where I’m wrong in the comment section.