Detroit Tigers Midseason Grades
By Tony Fischer
April 7, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers left fielder Matt Tuiasopo (18) at bat against the New York Yankees at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
BENCH
Ramon Santiago C
The most tenured of the Tigers players has been relegated to a back-up role seeing ver little playing time behind Peralta and Infante. When Infante recently hit the DL Santiago got some more playing time but has recently lost it to Tigers second basemen of the future Hernan Perez. “Santi” as his teammates call him is a bench player who can provide some speed and defense off the bench. In that capacity he has been serviceable this year.
Matt Tuiasopo A
The Samoan Slugger has earned the right to be the primary player in the left-field platoon with Andy Dirks. Tuiasosopo is hitting .329 with 6 HR in just 85 at bats. He has earned the shot to play more. Hopefully Leyland sees it the same way.
Don Kelly B+
Don Kelly has been better than expected for the Detroit Tigers. He has had a couple of clutch hits this season in a reserve role and his versatility in the field has been just what Jim Leyland was looking for.