5 Detroit Tigers MVP Candidates for 2015

Sep 25, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera (24) in the dugout against the Minnesota Twins at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

#2: Miguel Cabrera

Miguel Cabrera is a special player who had a bit of a down year in 2014 (by his standards). The amazing part of last year is that he was playing on bone spurs all season long. His power returned down the stretch in August and September, which was all the more amazing when he underwent surgery to repair the bone spurs, the more serious stress fracture was discovered.

While receiving a positive prognosis last week, Miggy may not be ready to go by Opening Day but will, barring any setbacks, be ready to go shortly after.

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So what kind of season will Cabrera have in 2015? He underwent core muscle surgery last offseason. This was the same surgery as Verlander so it would seem that it hampered both players last year. This type of surgery was just as serious and Cabrera is just now getting back into baseball shape after being on crutches most of the offseason. So with all that said, Cabrera could have another off-year, but make no mistake, he’s ready and raring to go.

Miggy has a fun personality on and off the field, but you can tell deep down he’s a competitor. He wants to win just as much as anyone else and truly understands that the best way for his team to win is for him to excel. He may be rather pedestrian in April and through perhaps half of May, but expect him to click into gear shortly thereafter and become vintage Cabrera.

Miguel Cabrera can be the best Tiger again and most expect him to do just that. And, as we’ve seen, he can become the best player in the game once again although he likely never stopped being the best player in the game despite last year’s injuries.