LAKELAND, Fla. — The Tigers released designated hitter Gary Sheffield this morning, a startling development since the team had already guaranteed him $14 million this season. It's the second-highest amount owed to a released player in club history, behind Damion Easley's $14.3 million in 2003.
“You’re going to pay him, one way or the other,” said club president/general manager Dave Dombrowski.
The decision is surprising from a historical perspective, because Sheffield’s next home run will be the 500th of his career.
“It’s one of those things where you move on, you know?” Sheffield said, remaining remarkably composed as he discussed the move. “I was surprised. I thought I was getting ready for the season. I never thought that I wasn’t going to be playing with the Detroit Tigers this year. It’s probably a blessing.”
Dombrowski confirmed that the decision means outfielder Marcus Thames will make the team. Thames will likely get a percentage of at-bats as the DH. “Marcus is a good player, a threat,” Dombrowski said. “He’s a streaky hitter at times. When he’s hot, he’s real hot. I think he’ll be a big plus for us.”
Manager Jim Leyland can also use Magglio OrdoƱez, Carlos Guillen and Miguel Cabrera at DH, which would allow him to have better defensive teams on certain days.
Sheffield signed a two-year, $28-million contract extension with the Tigers after being acquired in a trade with the New York Yankees after the 2006 season. He was one of the team's top hitters for the first half of that initial season in Detroit, but he has struggled to produce since sustaining a shoulder injury in July 2007.
Dombrowski lamented that injury this morning, saying, “We never really had a good chance to get the full feel of his abilities because of the injuries.”
Sheffield, who hit .178 (8-for-45) this spring, said Leyland told him that he wanted more versatility on the 25-man roster. Sheffield said he still “feels great” physically and would like to play this season. When asked if this is the end of his career, he replied, “It ain’t close.”
Once he clears waivers, Sheffield will be able to sign with another team. He said he’d give preference to the Tampa Bay Rays, who play close to his home.
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