Opinion: The Tigers Should Replace Victor Martinez With Steven Moya
By: Evan Jankens
@kingofthekc
In 2012, the Detroit Tigers lost DH Victor Martinez for the entire season due to a torn ACL.
Thursday afternoon, the Tigers received more bad news about V-Mart. He tore the medial meniscus in the same knee (left) in which he tore the ACL.
Now speaking from my experience in tearing my ACL, this surgery and timetable for return isn't nearly as long. I would have to speculate it would take him at his age, 36, about two months to recover. I'm not a doctor, but without complications, that appears to be the average.
When Martinez tore his ACL in 2012, the Tigers made a huge push and signed then-free agent Prince Fielder. We all know how that turned out.
I don't think the Tigers have to make any moves if it's a short time-table for Martinez to return.
They may have the answer right under their nose.
I suggest that Steven Moya gets a shot at the show.
Moya, 23, could be the replacement they need, and not as a DH either. J.D. Martinez doesn't play the best outfield so why not move him to DH and let Moya play left or right field?
In his minor league career, Moya has done better than OK.
In 2013, Moya hit 35 homers with 105 runs batted in at the double A level. He hit .276 and I know that Dave Dombrowksi has mentioned Moya has all the tools and yes he will strike out, but the guy has power.
Moya has the size, at 6 feet 6 inches tall, and weighing 230 pounds.
You may read opinions on Twitter saying the Tigers should go out and sign free agent Dayan Viciedo, who previously played for the White Sox. I say no way. The only thing he brings over Moya would be experience. He has played for the White Sox since 2010. Since playing meaningful game for the White Sox he has hit .255 (2012), .265 (2013), .231 (2014). He has hit for some power -- amassing 25,14 and 21 home runs respectively.
There is a reason the White Sox let him go in favor of Gordon Beckham in late January.
What do you think? Should the Tigers try to sign a free agent or stick with their talented young outfield, Steven Moya?
