Torii Hunter is likely to play right field with Detroit Tigers – MLB News
Detroit Tigers’ General Manager Dave Dombrowski said a number of times that he wanted someone like Torii Hunter to help Tigers solve their outfield problems. In the same press conference, he talked about Andy Dirks, Omar Infante and Brennan Boesch; all three
were used in the outfield by Jim Leyland in the last season.
"One of the areas we need to address is corner outfielders," Dombrowski said a few days after the World Series.
"Dirks is a good player," Dombrowski said. "Is he an everyday player at this point? I don't know. He might be. I know he's a real good player."
As soon as the season ended, everybody wanted to know what outfielder the Tigers would sign this offseason. There were a number of good outfielders available in the open market. Former Texas Rangers’ Most Valuable Player Josh Hamilton was perhaps the biggest
name available. However, the Tigers wanted someone who will be more reliable and durable.
Former Los Angeles Angels’ outfielder Torii Hunter seemed to be the ideal pick for the Tigers. Hunter has a history of being loyal with his clubs. He played 11 seasons for the Minnesota Twins before signing a contract with the Angels. He went into free agency
this offseason after playing five seasons in Los Angeles.
On Tuesday, Foxsports.com reported that Hunter visited Detroit to have a meeting with Tigers’ officials. Shortly thereafter, he tweeted that he will be signing on a two year $26 million contract with the Tigers, pending a physical. Hunter is likely to be
playing right field in his tenure with the Tigers.
The 37-year-old is a four time All Star and a nine time Gold Glove Award winner. In addition to his sensational hitting abilities, the right hander can help the Tigers improve their defence considerably.
He posted some impressive numbers last season. At 37-years-old, most of us thought his best days were behind him but that did not turn out to be the case. Hunter hit .313 with 16 home-runs and 92 RBI’s last season. Of course with the Tigers, he will also
have an excellent chance to make the World Series appearance.
Hunter’s son Torii Jr., who has recently signed by a football team in Detroit, could be another reason why he wanted to play for the Tigers. It will be interesting to see if he can continue his superb hitting form in the next season to help Detroit win their
first World Series title since 1984.
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