Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
The Detroit Tigers made a big move early in the season. On Sunday morning, it was announced that shortstop Alex Gonzalez was cut. The team will call up utility player Danny Worth to fill in, with Andrew Romine having some playing time as well.
The Tigers traded for Gonzalez as a replacement for Jose Iglesias. He was off to a good start with a game-winning single on Opening Day. Since then, he has struggled at the plate. Gonzalez currently has a .167 average, going 5-for-30 with just two RBI in his last nine games.
Gonzalez wasn’t always this bad. He actually had a hint of power earlier in his career. In 2004 and 2010, Gonzalez finished with 23 home runs and at least 79 RBI. Gonzalez is 37-years-old and his skills are declining. Many experts questioned his defense as well, especially with fielding balls up the middle.
Worth has placed at every infield position throughout his time in the minors. He’s spent most of his time at shortstop, playing in 231 games. Worth is not a power hitter, but can send a few over the fence. In eight minor-league seasons, he has a .250 average and .324 OBP with 23 home runs and 191 RBI.
In the 2014 season, Worth is hitting .308 with 16 hits and five doubles. Worth and Romine had some success at the major-league level, but can they combine for legitimate offense at the shortstop position? It will be telling as to who will get the start first and to continue their opportunity in the majors.
If either player fails early on, then the Tigers could make a move for free agent Stephen Drew. Right now, Worth becomes a deep addition in AL-only leagues.
Bill Pivetz is a fantasy sports writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @BPiv_Sports.
