Torii Hunter To Detroit

Definitely not a bad sign, and I believe a fair price for him as well. He's been very consistent throughout his career, had a very solid 2012 campaign and has always been known as a good clubhouse guy. He should add some depth to the lineup and will most likely serve as an outstanding mentor to Jackson.

The only negative I can see in this deal for Detroit is that: 1. They aren't getting any younger and 2. They need more help in the bullpen than in the outfield

Nonetheless if I was Dave Dombrowski I'd be extremely satisfied with this pick up. It'll be interesting to see if the Angels shop or if they stick with Bourjos and platoon Wells/Trumbo...

Interesting questions on the Angel outfield, JH. Vernon Well's contract makes it very difficult for the Angels to deal him, unless they are willing to eat serious cash. Vernon actually swung the bat pretty well at times later in the season, after returning from injury.

Trout admits he prefers CF, but will play LF with no complaints whatsoever if Bourjos is CF starter. Trumbo has experience in RF from 2012 season, but Angel mgmnt must be thinking about how seriously he tailed off at the plate from August on. With Torii gone, you could have basically a two-way rotation at DH with Kendrys and Trumbo and Wells/Trumbo rotating a corner OF spot. I believe the Angels will enter 2013 season with Bourjos, Trumbo, Wells on the roster. With Torii gone, Bourjos will stay, because of the value placed on his defense.

Torii is one my favorite Area Code and Goodwill Series players.

He stayed at our home, before the trip to Korea, where he played against H. Matsui of the Japan National Team. Actually when I threw BP, I tried to make to have Torii a "switch" hitter. He was a very successful HS basketball and football player.

"A great young man".

Bob

I still don't understand why the Angels didn't give the qualifying offer of 13.5 million to Torii since they would have gotten the draft choice and they were pretty certain someone would offer him a better deal. At worst they would have kept a still valuable player on a one year deal for a reasonable price. I don't feel Wells has anything left and feel any AB's they give to him will take away from the offense, not add to it.

Gonna be a great spring training in lakeland!


Definely need help in bullpen!

Signing Hunter will make them a better team, and keep them on top in the AL Central. Detroit needs tablesetters and bullpen. Hunter used to be an RBI guy, but he'll hit for avg in (presumably) the #2 hole. I'd expect them to turn their attention to bullpen pitchers next.

If you look at this through the lens of....will this make them a continued World Series contender...absolutley.