When Baseball Was Fun

This morning according to the Rip-Van-Winkle beat writer of the DETROIT FREE PRESS, John Lowe,
the Tigers announced that TODD (not drew) SMYLY was named the 5th starter of the Tiger’s starting
rotation. He will join the Toledo Mud Hens for one start before coming up I-75 to join the club and
make his Major League debut against the Tampa Bay Rays.

So now it’s official. However, those of you that follow WBWF probably remember that on January
3oth we predicted that it would be Todd Smyly to slide into the number five slot. What impressed
Jim Leyland, as it did with me, was the kid’s “low key” approach. Say what you want, but to baseball
guys who call the shots, this low key stuff is unbelievably important. I saw it last year in Todd as he
made it up the Tiger’s minor league ladder. I’ll take it one step further: HE WON’T STAY AT # 5 VERY
LONG.” The guy has Hal Newhouser coolness.

Here’s another HUGE Tiger position spot to fill: LEADOFF hitter! We have questioned Austin Jackson’s
attempt to fill this role on more than one occasion. But, the Tiger’s see his speed and his youth and
are willing to gamble ONE MORE TIME. We hope they’re right. Imagine what it would mean to this
powerhouse lineup to have a top-of-the-line batter leading them rather than striking out 181 times!?
And it would be good for years to come….as Boesch, Cabrera, Fielder, Martinez, Avila and Peralta are
in the barn for many-a-moon. Only Young, who is in his free agent year will be questionable for beyond
this year. But, returning to the question at hand…leadoff spot. If Austin Jackson brings home the
bacon….WELL FOLKS, IT’S KITTY BAR THE BARN YARD GATE! We just might be on the entrance to Detroit
Sports History. I’m more than ready for the ride!!

filed by bobby hoeft on 4-1-12….GO TIGERS!