The Tigers have designated Jeff Baker for assignment, according to the team's director of media relations, Brian Britten (on Twitter). Detroit recalled Avisail Garcia from Double-A Erie in a related move.
Baker, a right-handed hitter, appeared in 15 games for the Tigers after they acquired him from the Cubs on August 5th. The 31-year-old has played second base and all four corner positions this year, posting a line of .254/.293/.408 in 181 total plate appearances. A noted lefty masher, Baker has a career batting line of .298/.346/.505 against southpaws. He's a potential fit for the Giants, who are looking for a right-handed hitting outfielder.
So much for their big deadline move.
Jeff Baker would make a nice fit for SF Giants.
definitely, he’s kind of exactly what they need. I wonder if this DFA was so they could work out a trade without having to wait while he’s put on waivers.
Problem is after today, anybody added to a roster won’t be available for the playoffs.
Jeff Baker heart breaker
This move makes no sense with the rosters expanding tomorrow. The only thing this does is open a spot for Kelly or Castellanos. Personally I think it’s for Kelly since he seems to be a big clubhouse presence. Even as a big Castellanos fan, I don’t think he’s ready and Kelly doesn’t really add anything we don’t have and this comes from someone who likes Kelly. Moves I expect tomorrow are: Raburn, Kelly, Holliday, Garcia (already happened), AA, Schlereth. Additional moves I’d like to see: Rondon!!!!, Castellanos (roster spot needed), and maybe Oliver as a loogy tryout, but I won’t hold my breath.
Right handed outfielder. Doesn’t know how take a walk. Sabean will be all over this.
he should be, career .298/.346/.505 vs lefties
You’re in for a rude awaking if you really want Baker. His career numbers mean nothing at the moment. The Tigers picked him up for the the very same reason, and he collected seven hits in 35 AB’s. He his hitting .248 off lefties this year, too.
utility infielder
Cards would be nice. We need another utility man. Pete Kozma just won’t cut it.
This move made perfect sense in hindsight. Avisail Garcia is a fine hitter and overall player. If they had played a bit better on the road, we’d see them utilizing Garcia quite a bit more.