Tigers manager Brad Ausmus is considering Avila for the No. 2 spot in the lineup, Anthony Fenech of the Detroit Free Press reports.
Tigers manager Brad Ausmus is considering Avila for the No. 2 spot in the lineup, Anthony Fenech of the Detroit Free Press reports.
Analysis:
The departure of Torii Hunter this offseason opened up a spot in front of Miguel Cabrera and Victor Martinez in the lineup. Since the Tigers lack a prototypical leadoff candidate, Ian Kinsler is the best bet to handle that role against righties, but Avila's historical on-base tendencies could give him the upper hand in claiming a valuable spot in the batting order this spring.