2009 MLB Team Preview: Detroit

Career high 37 HR and 127 RBI could be a sign of things to come or just a mirage. Bet on a repeat performance in 2009. A hard worker in the field.

A first baseman by trade, Larish has demonstrated enough pop and contact ability to become part of a platoon rotation. He will see more action a third, but eventually will find his way into someone's first base.

Polanco is one of the best 2B's in the league and also one of the less appreciated. He has very good offensive numbers over the last three seasons; hitting for averages and to all areas. However, he has slipped defensively; he isn't covering as much ground as before.

Look for Cabrera to increase his AVG in his 2nd season in the AL. Despite the slow start he still had 37 homers and 127 RBI's. He is primed for career year and could be a bargain on draft day.

He continues to have injury problems and the loss of SS eligibility hampers his value in 2009. If he can stay healthy (a big if at 32 years old) a .290 average with 15 HRs and 90 RBIs are within reach.

Can count on everyday job with Detroit. If he remains healthy, a .280/15/70 season could be in the cards. At age 29, Laird still has the potential to make a Fantasy impact but he does move from a great hitter's park (Texas) to a pitcher-friendly one (Detroit).

Many expected better after Magglio's 2007 season which saw him hit .363. Folks that was a career year and be happy to get such a productive number 3 OF.

With great pitch selection and hitting atop a prolific Tigers lineup, this young Tiger could surely surpass his ranking if he turns on the jets and gets more steals

Most people feel he doesn't have anymore. Jim Leyland does not agree. The Tigers will spend 14 million to find out. You only need to risk a low round pick

He's not going to be a great value in 2009 as the injuries are numerous, but Sheff is still capable of stealing 10 bases. Shoulder surgery before the 2008 season and a 40th birthday in 2009 are very concerning as is the fact that he's likely to be in a platoon with the Tigers.

Another future ace who struggled last season, Verlander's 98 mph heat should rebound nicely this year and make him a nice value pick.

Galarraga was a pleasant surprise for Detroit last year and only ranks this low due to a lack of a track record. That could change with another good year.

The Tigers top off season deal brought a quality fourth starter to the Tigers. Hi power arm may move him higher up the list

This former 20 game winner has shed some pounds this winter and looks to regain his dominant form he showed as a Marlin.

It is starting to feel like Bonderman is not going to develop into the ace we thought he would be. Overuse when he was younger led tot his.

With only 50 games played in a six year career, expecting Rodney to put up big numbers is out of the possibility. Expect a 25 to 30 save campaign.