Let’s create some running conversational threads. And for those of you still going into offices, here’s a question to take with you – or use via Zoom calls – as you talk to your co-workers.
Here is today’s hot topic.
There is some concern over the number of Tigers on the IL, especially pitchers. But the Tiger rank right in the middle of MLB in terms of overall numbers. There are 7 other teams with more injured pitchers than Detroit. If you take away the injuries that happened last year (2), the Tigers fall among the teams with the lowest number of injuries.
An increase in injuries was expected this year due to the shortened spring training and quick ramp up to the season. It’s why MLB allowed teams to start with 28 players on the roster and currently green-lighting an extra pitcher for each team.
Nevertheless, injuries are always a concern. They can potentially expose a lack of depth that negatively impacts the quality of play.
In the case of the Tigers, they have had to make several changes in the outfield due to injuries. They also lost Javy Baez for a short period who has been one of their most productive players. Several starters are missing as well as a handful of relievers.
But the Tigers have also upgraded their roster with new free agent signings in the outfield, at SS, behind home plate and on the mound.
However, their current record is 7 wins, 14 losses and tied for last place in the AL Central.
So what do you believe is the largest contributor to their below-average performance so far this year?
Is it the injuries – some to key players – or is due primarily to the lack of talent?
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In sports there is a saying: “You win as a team and you lose as a team”. That saying applies to the Tigers. The Tigers’ starting pitching (two wins from the entire starting rotation: Skubal and Pineda), most of the batters hitting below .200 with one or zero home runs), and an erratic defense, with players playing positions at which they have inadequate experience- spells last place !
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The Players are not good enough talent-wise, or mentally. The coaching isn’t able to overcome the lack of talent and depth. Cold, wet weather isn’t helping. Same issues as we saw in April 2021. Will it turn around again like it did last year?
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I see the Tigers engaged in advanced spring training. Young players are adapting to the Major League level, new veterans are adjusting to their new team and stadium, and veteran Tigers are shaking off the 90-day labor fight. I have full confidence that the Tigers will warm up and achieve .500 or better.
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If “lack of talent” includes lack of performance, that gets my vote. Regardless of injuries, players like Hasse, Baddoo, Candelario, Schoop, Cabrera and Rodriguez are no executing at their career levels, while Torkelson and Grossman are also striking out like crazy. Hinch & co. need to press some buttons.
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I agree with this 100%. Schoop and Candelario have the most AB on the team. Schoop has an OPS of .403 and Candy .484. Cabrera .648 Baddoo .421
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Everyone has injuries they have to deal with, but the sloppy play has cost them at least 3 losses. It doesn’t help that 1/3 of the lineup is hitting below the Mendoza line into May.
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Key injuries is the main reason, although the Tigers aren’t near the top in talent.
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At least the Tigers lead the league in something – playing poorly. Would sure like to know what Hinch and his coaches plan to do about it. And has Avila been heard from lately?
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Remember last year the fans’s excuse was that Hinch was moving guys around too much? Can’t put lipstick on a pig.
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True all teams have injuries but I believe the Tig’s tough start began with a broken foot. I say that tongue-in-cheek because without it Meadows is DH’ng in Tampa and Paredes is in Toledo. AJ has shown great regilancy in next man up but his bus of subs has only a few stragglers on board due to injuries.
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The Tigers don’t have the talent.
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