ICYMI: MCB Digest–Detroit Tigers Week That Was

Inching ever closer to Spring Training, the Detroit Tigers received important updates on key injuries this week. Miguel Cabrera is unlikely to be ready before Spring Training was the big news, but the news wasn’t all bad. 

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It seems that the trio of players the Tigers are counted highly upon that are coming off surgeries are on the right track. Miguel Cabrera will not be ready for the start of Spring Training, but getting his walking boot removed is a very good sign to be ready in time for Opening Day (though he will be reevaluated next month). Jose Iglesias is coming around, and running at about 80 percent with no pain. Bruce Rondon is slated to throw off the mound around six times before pitchers and catchers report on Feb. 19.

David Price and the Tigers agreed to a record-setting deal to avoid arbitration. Price will get $19.75 for the 2015 before becoming an unrestricted free agent at the end of the year. The team also reupped with J.D. Martinez and Alfredo Simon and appear to be close on Al Alburquerque.

There was also speculation late Friday that the Tigers may have interest in James Shields.

So that covers most of the news (aside from constant Max Scherzer speculation). In case you missed anything else this week (or would like to read it again), check out this week’s Best of Motor City Bengals from our talented writers.

First up, Zane Stalberg supported trading David Price and getting all the team can get from the impending free agent.

The Detroit Tigers Need to Trade David Price

"In Major League Baseball, if you are in desperate need of young, controllable players, there are few better teams to turn towards than the St. Louis Cardinals. Built on strong scouting, and player development, the Cardinals have harnessed an unparalleled ability to produce homegrown talent, and stay competitive. In light of this fact, the Detroit Tigers would be foolish to pass up the opportunity to flip David Price for some of St. Louis’ young talent, and, in turn, sign Max Scherzer. According to a report from Jon Morosi, and Ken Rosenthal, of Fox Sports, the Cardinals are “pursuing a major upgrade” in their rotation, and Price is one of their top targets. In fact, he may be the most attainable option. Morosi and Rosenthal believe that Scherzer’s price tag, and Cole Hamels‘ trade value, may deter the team from acquiring either pitcher. However, with just one year left on his deal, Price will not cost them nearly as much as giving 200 million dollars to Scherzer, or parting with elite prospects for Hamels. The Tigers need to take advantage of that. Price may not land the Tigers what Hamels would land Philadelphia, but he can, without question, help Detroit add to a depleted depth of quality youth."

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