Detroit Tigers: Spring training news and notes

Here at The Corner, we round up Detroit Tigers news and rumors around the Tigers blogosphere so that you don’t spend hours surfing the web searching.

The Detroit Tigers have told Jacoby Jones that they want him to start fielding ground balls.  Evan Woodbery writes that the team thinks Jones has potential to be a productive outfielder. Until that time, they plan on using him as a utility man. He’s struggled offensively in the majors, and the move will help him get more at-bats.

The Tigers want Jones to stay in the fold, and they’re looking to try a variety of things to make that possible, writes Chris McCosky.

Beat writer Anthony Fenech gave his updated projections of the opening day roster for the Olde English D. Detroit Jock City seems to agree with Fenech, in regards to who the opening day pitching staff will be.  Of course, out of the starting rotation competition is Travis Wood and Alex Wilson.

Wood tore his ACL and was subsequently released by the team. Wilson, meanwhile, went back to the bullpen where he’s spent the majority of his career.

Mike Fiers was rocked yesterday in the 6-3 loss to the Blue Jays. Notably, Fiers has started a vegan diet. It didn’t seem to help him pitch in the outing yesterday. He’s struggled so far in his three outings of spring training.

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Staff writer Rob Lowe had a chance to interview broadcaster Mario Impemba. He took some time out of his spring training time to discuss growing up as Tigers fan, along with a few other things.  The Tigers have indicated that they want to sign at least one more free-agent pitcher. Andy Patton thinks that the Tigers should bring aboard Tony Zych.

Former Tiger Anibal Sanchez signed a one-year deal with the Twins during the off-season. The Twins released Sanchez this weekend as they agreed to terms with Lance Lynn. Tiger fans won’t have to worry about Sanchez pitching in Comerica Park this season.