Miguel Cabrera Tells Detroit Tigers He Wants To Play First Base

Oct 16, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers third baseman Miguel Cabrera (24) catches a foul ball against the Boston Red Sox during the first inning in game four of the American League Championship Series baseball game at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

According to a Venezuelan report, Miguel Cabrera has told the Detroit Tigers that he would prefer to play first base next season.

This was probably going to happen anyway, but many Tigers fans were wondering whether or not the two-time MVP candidate might not prefer to remain at third base. Two years ago when he made the switch back to the hot corner, his comments at the time indicated that he was excited about the move and that he still considered third base his “natural” position. Many thought he might still hold those opinions — preferring to see himself as an athletic third baseman than a lumbering first baseman.

But that appears not to be the case, and it’s not really surprising. Even if he still would like to play third, he’s probably had conversations with the coaching staff and front office and can probably see the writing of the wall. Cabrera — besides a couple of alcohol-related incidents that are now several years in the past — has been nothing but a consummate team player while with the Tigers. If he can see that playing first base is what’s best for the team, then that’s what he’ll do. He’s not been one to drum up trouble or make statements counter to the company line.

All indications now point to Cabrera at first base and either Nick Castellanos or an acquired veteran taking over the third base duties for the Tigers.