Harold Reynolds: Third base not the ideal position for Miguel Cabrera – MLB News
Detroit Tigers’ Miguel Cabrera stated in an interview that he will be playing third base this season following Prince Fielder’s signing as a first baseman. However, to be effective at the third base position, Cabrera will be looking to lose weight. Over the last few seasons, Cabrera has put on a great amount of weight and his health and fitness is becoming a nagging issue for the Tigers.
Former Major League infielder Harold Reynolds commented in a telephonic interview that Cabrera should do a lot of hard work on his physical health to perform first baseman’s duties effectively. The 28-year-old will be looking to be nimble on his feet to achieve decent results at the challenging position.
"He's got a lot of work to do if you ask me, starting with his weight," said Reynolds, an analyst with MLB Network. "The size he's at right now at first base, he's going to have to lose a lot of weight to be a little more nimble."
"I'm not as optimistic as others might be (that he can play third). I still think he might end up in leftfield. He doesn't have the luxury of standing right by the base at first and catching balls thrown to him.” Reynolds further added.
Reynolds is convinced that “third base” is not an ideal position for the striker. Cabrera is likely to have more success in left field. To improve his defensive play, Cabrera will have to get back to being a young athlete, which may not be easy for him.
Winner of three Golden Glove Awards at third base, Reynolds further added that the Prince-Tigers deal will not be effective until Cabrera improves his fitness. If he has to move quicker on the field, there are quite a few things he will be looking at to change in his game play.
Cabrera's physical condition will be important to the Tigers, who have spent millions of dollars on acquiring their new first baseman, Prince Fielder. Batting with a decent .299 average with 38 home-runs and 120 RBIs, Fielder made the most of his opportunities last season. He will be looking to help the Tigers win the World Series with his strong and consistent performances.
Tags: