Detroit Tigers look to acquire starting pitcher Anibal Sanchez – MLB Update
According to a leading sports website, Detroit Tigers are among a half dozen teams expected to pursue free agent pitched Anibal Sanchez. The right handed starting pitcher produced several match winning performances for the Tigers last year.
In 195.2 innings pitched, Sanchez struck-out 167 batters with an impressive 3.86 ERA. Sanchez, who was acquired from the Miami Marlins during the non waiver trade deadline did exactly what the Tigers wanted him to. His efforts in second half of the regular
season and the playoffs helped the Tigers make it to the World Series finals.
"I'm not sure where it's going to lead with him," Dombrowski said. "But I do know that he's a very sought-after guy."
"I know it's not going to be an easy pursuit by any means," Tigers’ general manager Dombrowski said.
Right now, Sanchez is one of the top available starters in the market. On the back of three excellent starts in the playoffs, the starter will not be a cheap option anymore.
While three other Tigers moved to free agency as soon as the World Series ended, the Tigers had shown their interest to retain Sanchez for 2013 season. According to a leading sports website, clubs are likely to begin negotiations with free agents on Saturday
and the Tigers are among six Major League Baseball teams seeking out Sanchez’s services.
"I think in our situation, we'll see how that bullpen mixes with some of our other needs," Dombrowski said.
"I know he likes it here," Leyland said. "But we all know how that goes. You can like it anywhere, if the price is right."
"Offers being equal, it helps you," he said. "Offers that blow you away, it doesn't really make much difference."
Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, Texas Rangers and the Toronto Blue Jays have also shown interest in the right hander. However, considering what Sanchez managed to achieve in his tenure with the Tigers, Detroit should have an advantage
over other teams.
Manager Jim Leyland knows the Tigers have an edge over other teams. However, as it is usually does, money is likely to determine Sanchez’s next move.
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