Former New York Yankee OF Johnny Damon Signs with the Detroit Tigers

After a few months of speculation the Detroit Tigers and Johnny Damon finally reached an agreement that brings the outfielder to Detroit.  Damon and the Tigers agreed to a one-year deal worth $8M.

So, where exactly does Damon fit in?  He’s clearly taking at-bats from someone, right?  Who’s out of the picture now?

You have to figure that this probably spells bad news for Carlos Guillen.  Guillen is a veteran left fielder, just like Damon.  Unlike Guillen, Damon has shown the ability to stay healthy.  Now don’t get me wrong, I don’t think means Guillen is on his way out, as he could form a nice combo with Magglio Ordonez and rotate from the corner outfield spots to DH.

Assuming that’s all true, who would play in center?  I think Austin Jackson should get a shot at winning the job in spring training.  However, if he doesn’t perform and looks like he’s not ready, I hope the Tigers give Ryan Raburn a shot out there.  I know he’s not an ideal option, but I don’t see any point in rushing Jackson.

How’s this look for a line-up:

1. Damon LF
2. Raburn CF
3. Ordonez RF
4. Cabrera 1B
5. Guillen DH
6. Sizemore 2B
7. Inge 3B
8. Laird C
9. Everett SS

You have to admit, the line-up does look better with Damon in there.  For more on the Damon signing, check out the links below:

Bless You Boys

DesigNate Robertson

Cutoff Man