Guillen looking to ‘winterize’ his game

For those out there worried if Carlos Guillen will struggle to adapt to the outfield position, think again. The ten year veteran who hit .286 in 113 games in 2008, will pack up his bags and head on home to work out with the Magallanes of the Venezuelan Winter League.

According to Assistant General Manager Al Aliva, Guillen could see playing time in late December with the Magallanes. Though it is becoming more and more strange to see a regular take the field in winter ball action, Guillen does not have a clause in his contract stating that he won’t play in the winter leagues. The last time that Guillen saw winter league action was in 2005.

WBC BOUND?

If Carlos Guillen takes the field for Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic, it will be interesting to note where he would take the field. It would seem possible that, while the Tigers feel that Guillen’s health is best preserved in the corner outfield, he could be used at shortstop or third base. If Omar Vizquel and Cesar Izturis opt out of play, this could become a possibility. Magglio Ordonez and Miguel Cabrera will likely join Carlos Guillen from the Tigers squad. This could create a conflict of interest and could lead to Guillen asking to play opposite Magglio in the outfield.

The Sign of a Competitor

I love that Guillen is stepping up to the plate (or left field in this case) to better himself before spring training gets underway. It really shows his commitment to the team and doing whatever management feels is best for this squad. Do I honestly believe that Guillen could still play third or short? I sure do. Keeping him healthy though could pay huge dividends at the plate. Without the protection of Miguel Cabrera in 2007, Guillen drove in 102 runs. In 2006, he hit .320 with 19 dingers and 85 RBIs. When healthy, he could be the sparkplug the offense is missing.

It will be interesting to see how long Leyland and the gang stick with this plan. It was originated last season, but the move to third came to save Cabrera’s butt defensively.

Guillen’s projected line for 2009: .289/15 HRs/ 76 RBIs.

Around the Tigersphere:

• The Spot Starters asks, “Would you give up Miner for Laird?”

• Billfer looks at the idea of bringing in Kerry Wood and Brandon Lyon. I would agree that would be a formidable back of the pen. I profiled Wood in late November.

• Former Tiger Freddy Garcia did not reaggrevate a previous injury to his throwing shoulder last week. According to Jason Beck, Garcia was just suffering shoulder tightness.

• The Laugh of the Day: Samara over at The Roar of the Tiers is at it again. Watch out, its the RoboOzzieGuillen.