The key player for the Tigers next season is ....
Ah, good question. And of course, I have the answer, so read on.
The Tigers had one of the most-devastating conclusions to a season ever, losing an extra-inning, extra game to the Twins. Overall, it was a moderately successful season, 86-77 and three outs from the playoffs. Ultimately, it wasn't enough, and it also raised the stakes for next year, because GM Dave Dombrowski will have to plug a few holes.
I think two key free-agents -- Placido Polanco and Fernando Rodney -- will leave. That means the Tigers will need a second baseman and a closer, not really the toughest positions to fill. They also might need a shortstop, although they can live with the Adam Everett-Ramon Santiago combo. They need a corner outfielder, although Ryan Raburn has developed into a decent hitter with power.
All relevant issues, but not as big as the one involving the key Tiger for next season. Ready? The guy who single-handedly could shape this team's possible contention is -- dum-da-dum -- Edwin Jackson.
Yes, if you're asking me right now, I say the Tigers' hopes will shrink or rise dramatically based on this question: Who's the real Edwin Jackson?
Is it the guy who was dominant until mid-July and near the league leaders in ERA at 2.52? Or is it the guy who gave up at least five earned runs in four of his last five starts and staggered to the finish with a 13-9 record and 3.62 ERA?
Truly tough to tell. Jackson, 26, appeared to tire at the end, which means the issue could be solvable. If it is, the Tigers have Justin Verlander, Rick Porcello and Jackson at the top of their rotation, and that'll keep them in a lot of games.
The offense was frustrating to watch, but even with all their flaws, the Tigers had a chance because of their pitching. If Jackson returns to his first-half form, they indeed will have another decent shot next year.
bob.wojnowski@detnews.com
