Miggy
Oh yes, he’s back.
In 2018, Miguel Cabrera was batting .299 with 22 RBI, before a ruptured biceps tendon ended his season just thirty-eight games in. For some Tigers fans that was the end of the season.
Now, after surgery and months of rehab, Detroit has it’s big fella back. In 10 games this spring, Miggy has posted a .348 batting average with eight hits, 2 HR, and 6 RBI. Miggy also still has some tricks up his sleeve, as shown when he pulled the hidden ball trick on Minnesota’s Ehide Adrianza for the second out of the third inning in Monday’s 3-0 shutout. In a time where everything has been painful to watch, Tigers fans have something to smile about.
What should fans expect from Cabrera in year 17?
He’s not going to carry this team to a championship, that’s for sure. But, he will provide leadership for the many young players in the clubhouse all season, as he has continued to do year in and year out.
Now that Victor Martinez is retired don’t be surprised to see Cabrera filling in at DH most of the time. He’ll still get his fair share of first base, but that might slow down as the season progresses. Niko Goodrum may start to show up at first base.
Even at age 35, his offensive power may return. After batting .249 in 2017, it looked like Cabrera was going to return to his usual self in 2018. For all Tigers fans, one can only hope for that trend to continue. It’s unlikely he will hit 30+ home runs like in days gone by. However, he will still show why he was the triple crown winner back in 2012.
As for his charm and humor, that will never go away. Expect more funny faces and playfulness on the field.
