Drew Smyly looking for fifth starting spot in Tigers pitching lineup – MLB News
According to leading sports website, Detroit Tigers can offer the fifth starting spot to left hander, Drew Smyly. The Tigers have been trying to secure a deal with Jacob Turner but even after weeks of negotiations, they have failed to come to a conclusion.
The door for the fifth starting spot is expected to be open for the pitchers who are not even on the 40 man roster. Smyly, who produced decent performances last season, will be hoping to sign a contract with the club he likes the most.
With his ability to pitch with control and accuracy, he can prove to be a real asset for the Tigers. However, persistent hard work and consistency are going to be the key for him if he wants to secure a permanent place on the Tigers’ squad.
"First of all, (Turner) has quality stuff and is going to be a tremendous big-league pitcher," Dombrowski said. "I don't have a question about that. This guy is really good. But last year, if you were watching us at the big-league level, you would have said, 'There's no way this guy could be ready.'"
"I've seen guys who get a cup of coffee at the big league level, guys for whom the game moved real fast," Dombrowski said. "And they come back to pitch very well.”
According to sources, Tigers' officials have told the general manager and president Dave Dombrowski that Smyly has the potential to play Major League Baseball. Although he has only one year of professional experience under his belt, he showed glimpses of his immense talent last season. Therefore, Dombrowski might prefer him over other available options. Smyly’s main competitor for the position will be Andy Oliver who is also a left hander thrower.
The Tigers originally wanted to sign on Jacob Turner for the fifth starting slot. However, as Tuner hasn’t confirmed his availability as yet, Dombrowski can now consider other options. With Spring Training starting in a few weeks time, the GM will be looking to make the decision as early as possible.
If Tigers include Smyly in their pitching line-up, he will have the chance to polish his game play during Spring Training to become a permanent member of the team.
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