Prior to the start of the 2017 MLB season, it would have been almost unimaginable to think the Detroit Tigers would be just 0.5 games behind the San Francisco Giants for the WORST RECORD IN BASEBALL!!!
But, here we stand, on September 28th, and the Tigers are 62-96 with just four games remaining on the schedule.
One of the many reasons for the Tigers struggles this season is the play of Miguel Cabrera. In 130 games, he is hitting a career-low .249 with just 16 home runs and 60 RBIs. That comes after a 2016 campaign which saw him light things up with a .316 average to go along with 38 home runs and 108 RBIs.
Jason Beck of MLB.com recently asked Cabrera if he is ready to put this season behind him.
“Tell me about it,” he said, shaking his head. “It’s like a nightmare.”
Miggy hit it right on the head. This season has been an absolute “nightmare” for the Tigers and their fans, especially those who thought a return to the playoffs was a possibility.
One reason for Cabrera’s struggles is his back. It’s something he has dealt with all season long and he knows that for 2018 to be different, he has to get healthy.
“This has bothered me since Spring Training,” he said of his back. “It’s been bothering me all year. At some points I was feeling good, and at some points I feel I can’t go anymore. I need to change a lot of things this season so I can come in better shape.”
Regardless of whether or not Cabrera is 100% next season, chances are the Tigers are going to have an uphill battle on their hands. It’s clear the team has begun its “rebuild” stage and next year will likely be a long one for the Tigers and their fans.
H/T to Jason Beck for quotes used in this piece.
One of the knocks against Ausmus was that he was too young and too close to players in age. Nevin is 2 yrs younger than Brad.
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