Detroit trimmed its roster by nine players today, none of which were really surprises. On their way to minor league camp are:
- Wilfredo Ledezma
- Chad Durbin
- Lee Gardner
- Kevin Hodge
- Brian Peterson
- Max St. Pierre
- Josh Phelps
- Ryan Ludwick
- Reggie Taylor
It was hoped that Ledezma could either compete for the 5th spot in the rotation, or provide a second left handed option in the bullpen. Unfortunately he struggled and is headed back to Toledo for more seasoning. If the Tigers keep a second lefty, it looks like it will be Bobby Seay or Hector Mercado. Or there is always that possiblity of a trade.
Phelps, Ludwick, and Taylor all had very solid springs, but found themselves on the wrong end of a crowded situation.
This cut also thinned out the catching ranks with Peterson and St. Pierre heading to AAA. Brian Peterson remains an interesting option. He has a reputation as a defensive catcher, but in 2004 posted 300/361/444 line for AA Chattanooga in the Southern League at age 25.
The remaining 11 cuts will be much more interesting as Detroit sorts out the Thames/Gomez/Logan situation in the oufield, as well as the bullpen options.