Breaking News: Detroit Tigers Catcher, Victor Martinez, Tears His ACL; Will Miss Majority of 2012
The off-season has been a dull one for Tigers’ fans, but now they are dealt with a huge blow.
According to the Huffington Post, Victor Martinez has a torn ACL and will “miss most of 2012″.
Martinez was one of the only free agents who panned out last season. He had a .330 batting average, .850 OPS, and a 2.9fWAR. Along side Miguel Cabrera and the emerging Alex Avila, Martinez was one of the most consistent forces in the Tigers line-up in 2011. The defending American League Central champions will need to find production from unlikely sources in order to make-up for Martinez’ abscence.
At this stage in his career, Martinez was more of a 1B/DH than a catcher, but his bat will still be missed. The Tigers better hope players like the aforementioned Avila and Jhonny Peralta are true to their 2011 form, or they will be in a world of hurt. Miguel Cabrera can only do so much, and if his protection is gone, the Tigers offense is going to suffer severely.
This unfortunate injury blows the AL Central race even more wide open. The Tigers eased their way to the title with Justin Verlander and some luck (BABIP driven).
For 2012, Martinez was projected to have a 2.5 fWAR with an .817 OPS by Bill James.
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