Quintin Berry hoping to end season on bright note – MLB Detroit Tigers News
Quintin Berry had a big smile on his face when the Detroit Tigers swept the New York Yankees in the American League Championship Series. In some ways, it has been a memorable season for the rookie, who is trying to cement his place on the Tigers’ big league
roster.
Credit should be given to Berry for making the most of available opportunities since the start of the season. He was called by Manager Jim Leyland in May after Austin Jackson picked up a serious injury. Jackson needed time to recover and Berry started to
make a big impression on Leyland.
He finished the season with a decent .258 average with a couple of home-runs. However, what separates him from other debutants is his ability to raise his level in pressure situations. Berry helped the Tigers extend their winning streak in crucial stages
of the regular season, driving in runs almost every time he stepped onto the plate.
"None of those balls were caught, so I'm going in (the clubhouse) and let everybody know that they'd better be glad I'm on their team,” said Berry after hitting against Justin Verlander and Doug Fister in Tigers’ training session on Saturday.
After working with the Tigers’ Minor League system, it seems Berry had an extended opportunity to prove his mettle. So far, he has been used as a base stealer but Berry can play both left field and right field.
"It's obviously going to be Dirks or Berry. If we play the Cardinals, we won't see a left-handed starter and they only have one left-hander on their team," manager Jim Leyland said.
"This has been amazing," he said in a post game interview. "I never would have thought I would be going to the World Series — let alone be in the big leagues."
Berry will be looking to take his impressive hitting form into the World Series. Leyland has already indicated that he might use him in right field against right handed pitchers. If Berry can finish the season on a bright and shiny note, surely we see a
lot more from him in the next season.
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