Detroit Tigers 5 defensive questions

Mar 30, 2015; Lakeland, FL, USA; Detroit Tigers first basemen Miguel Cabrera (24) attempts to tag out Atlanta Braves third baseman Kelly Johnson (24) in the second inning of the spring training game at Joker Marchant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports

#5: Will Miggy be slowed at first base?

The early returns for Miguel Cabrera at the plate have been beyond impressive.

Miggy has suffered through some rather painful injuries in each of the last two seasons, but he now appears to be very healthy and ready to go.

After two surgeries in the last two offseasons, the Detroit Tigers don’t seem to be taking the cautious approach to Cabrera’s return to the game–much like they are doing with Jose Iglesias. They are also being extremely careful with Victor Martinez, which means no time in the field at first base.

This means that Miggy will be on his feet in the field 5-6 days per week. Will this cause too much wear and tear and lead to a less effective first baseman?

He will never win a Gold Glove, but Cabrera knows how to play first base. I would call him a slightly above average first baseman, which is an upgrade over Prince Fielder, who was simply a terrible defender.

It is also impressive that Miggy is good at first because he played in the outfield in his early days with the Florida Marlins, shifted to third base, shifted to first during his first year in Detroit in 2008, then to third, and back to first.

I am betting Cabrera’s defense will still be good this season. He seems to be driven in all facets of the game this season as he finally seems to be (knocking on wood as I type) fully healthy.

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